Ferrous Sulfate

Drug Class: Supplement: Iron Salt

Iron Salt

Mechanism of Action

Iron is an essential component in the physiological formation of hemoglobin, adequate amounts of which are necessary for effective erythropoiesis and the resultant oxygen transport capacity of the blood. Iron is necessary for catecholamine metabolism and the proper functioning of neutrophils

Dose/Route

Liquid or pill: 300 to 325 mg of regular-release ferrous sulfate orally once a day.

Contrainteractions

antacids tetracyclines Vitamin C

Precautions

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 sulfate . Take ferrous sulfate with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release tablet or capsule. Swallow the pill whole.

Side Effects

nausea, constipation, dark stools, diarrhea , stains teeth

Indication

provides the iron needed by the body to produce red blood cells. It is used to treat or prevent iron-deficiency anemia because of pregnancy, poor diet, excess bleeding, or other medical problems.