Ferrous Fumarate And Folic Acid: What Is The Most Important Information I Should Know About Ferrous Fumarate And Folic Acid

Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.

What is the most important information I should know about ferrous fumarate and folic acid?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have iron overload syndrome, hemolytic anemia (a lack of red blood cells), porphyria (an enzyme disorder that causes blue discoloration of the skin), thalassemia (a genetic disorder of red blood cells), if you are an alcoholic, or if you receive regular blood transfusions.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it. An overdose of iron can be fatal, especially in a young child.

Symptoms of a ferrous fumarate and folic acid overdose may include nausea, severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds, shallow breathing, weak and rapid pulse, pale skin, blue lips, and seizure (convulsions).

Do not give ferrous fumarate and folic acid to a child younger than 12 years old.

Take ferrous fumarate and folic acid on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Avoid taking antacids or antibiotics within 2 hours before or after taking ferrous fumarate and folic acid.

Ferrous fumarate and folic acid is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include a special diet. It is very important to follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you should eat to make sure you get enough iron and folic acid from both your diet and your medication.

E-mail This | Print This Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Last updated:	May 23, 2007