Iron- Side Effects, Precautions and Contraindications
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Iron Supplements

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Iron supplement Sangobion, Hemoplex, Floron, Maltofer Adult, Children

Iron Supplements - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Iron Supplements cause?

  • Stomach upset or vomiting
    • If these side effects occur when the medication is taken on an empty stomach, take it with meals or a snack instead
  • Constipation
    • Drink more water and eat more high- fibre foods such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains
  • Darkening of stools
    • This side effect is harmless

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Before taking Iron Supplements , what precautions must I follow?

Before starting on this medication, inform your healthcare professional if you:

  • Are allergic to this medication, or any of the other ingredients in this medication
  • Have a medical condition called thalassaemia, a type of blood disorder
  • Have a medical condition called haemochromatosis where there is a high iron level in the body
  • Are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Iron Supplements ?

Space iron supplements (exception: iron polymaltose) 2 hours apart from milk and other calcium rich foods or supplements.

Do not take iron supplements (exception: iron polymaltose) and certain medications such as antacids, antibiotics (e.g. Quinolones - Ciprofloxacin, Tetracyclines), medications used to treat Parkinson's disease (e.g. Levodopa), or Levothyroxine at the same time. It should be spaced at least 2 to 4 hours apart. You may check with your healthcare professional for more information.

  • Updated on 12/31/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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