Ferrous Sulfate

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    About this medicine

    Generic name Ferrous Sulfate
    Active ingredients Ferrous sulfate (provides elemental iron)
    Brand names (as verified) Fefol; Feosol; product brands and combinations vary
    Dosage form Tablet
    Strength Tablets and liquids vary in elemental iron content; check the exact product rather than relying only on the salt weight.
    Prescription classification Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
    Approved routes of administration Oral
    Applies to IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction

    Approved indications

    • An iron supplement used to treat or prevent iron-deficiency anaemia. Also used during pregnancy or in people with increased iron requirements.

    Contraindications (do not use if…)

    • Avoid in people with haemochromatosis, haemosiderosis, haemolytic anaemia, or those receiving repeated blood transfusions. Do not use without confirmed iron deficiency.

    Important precautions

    • Take with food to reduce stomach upset, though absorption is better on an empty stomach. Avoid taking with tea, coffee, calcium-rich foods, or antacids close to the dose time. Stools may turn black ‚ this is harmless.

    Common side effects

    • Common effects include nausea, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhoea, and black stools.

    Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care

    • Seek urgent care if you suspect iron overdose, especially in children. Symptoms include severe vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, or blue lips.

    Important interactions

    • Avoid taking at the same time as antacids, calcium supplements, tetracyclines, quinolones, levothyroxine, or methyldopa ‚ space doses by at least 2 hours.

    Allergy considerations

    • Report any known allergy to ferrous sulfate or other iron compounds. Check product excipients for any inactive ingredients you are sensitive to.

    Pregnancy and lactation

    Pregnancy safety Use with caution — see notes
    Notes
    • Iron supplementation is commonly recommended during pregnancy to prevent deficiency. Use as directed by your doctor or midwife.

    Information

    Lactation safety Use with caution — see notes
    Notes
    • Compatible with breastfeeding at recommended doses. Excess iron supplementation is not necessary unless deficiency is confirmed.

    Children and older adults

    • Iron supplements are a leading cause of accidental overdose in young children. Keep the product locked away. Paediatric dosing must be supervised by a doctor.

    Storage

    • Store below 25¬∞C in the original, tightly closed container away from moisture. Keep well out of children's reach.

    Missed dose

    • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is close, skip it. Do not take two doses at once.

    Overdose

    • Iron overdose is a medical emergency, especially in children. Call emergency services or a poison helpline immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

    This page is general information, not personal advice. Never change, start or stop any medicine without speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.