Elemental Iron+folic Acid
About Elemental Iron+folic Acid
Elemental Iron+folic Acid belongs to a class of medications called 'haematinics' primarily used to treat anaemia (deficiency of iron and haemoglobin). Iron deficiency occurs mainly due to poor diet, poor absorption of food or increased folate use in the body (in pregnancy). Anaemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry the adequate oxygen required to various body tissues.
Elemental Iron+folic Acid is a combination of two drugs, namely: Elemental Iron and Folic acid. Elemental iron helps with the transportation of oxygen throughout the body and the production of red blood cells. Folic acid works by boosting the production of red blood cells (RBC) in the body. Together, Elemental Iron+folic Acid helps treat anaemia.
You are advised to take Elemental Iron+folic Acid for as long as your doctor has recommended it for you, depending upon your medical condition. You may experience constipation, dry mouth, loss of appetite, bloating, and diarrhoea in some cases. Most of these side effects of Elemental Iron+folic Acid do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
Do not take Elemental Iron+folic Acid if you are allergic to iron, folic acid or any of the ingredients of Elemental Iron+folic Acid. Do not start taking any new medication without telling your doctor. Elemental Iron+folic Acid is generally safe to consume during pregnancy. Let your doctor know if you are a nursing mother before starting Elemental Iron+folic Acid. This supplement should be given to a child under 12 years of age only if advised by the doctor.
Uses of Elemental Iron+folic Acid
Medicinal Benefits
Elemental Iron+folic Acid is a combination drug containing or 'haematinics' primarily used to treat anaemia (deficiency of red blood cells and haemoglobin). During pregnancy, the demand for iron and folic acid in the body is increased, therefore Elemental Iron+folic Acid acts as a supplement in pregnancy. It also helps the body produce and maintain new cells, prevents the DNA from mutating, leading to cancer. Elemental Iron+folic Acid contains Elemental Iron and Folic acid (haematinics combination), which works by boosting the production of red blood cells (RBC) and haemoglobin in the body. Thus, the use of Elemental Iron+folic Acid is associated with a reduced risk of iron deficiency and anaemia, especially in pregnant women.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Elemental Iron+folic Acid
- Bloating
- Loss Of Appetite
- Dry Mouth
- Diarrhea
- Skin rashes
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Anaemia: It is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to various body tissues. Anaemia can be temporary, which can be treated with the help of supplements, and it can also be long-term, which might require medical procedures. It makes you feel tired very quickly due to a lack of oxygen supply in the body. It is one of the most common blood disorders.
Folate deficiency: The deficiency of folic acid in the body is known as folate deficiency. It generally occurs when your diet does not have sufficient folic acid (citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables). Folate deficiency, if left untreated, can lead to anaemia.
FAQs
Elemental Iron+folic Acid contains Elemental Iron and Folic acid, primarily used to treat anaemia. Elemental Iron+folic Acid works by boosting the production of red blood cells (RBC) in the body.
Folic acid requirements are usually met from the diet, but additional supplements are required in its deficiency. Elemental Iron+folic Acid is advised to pregnant women who want to conceive as folate utilization is increased in pregnancy. It is generally given at least 4 weeks before pregnancy and is continued up to 3 months of pregnancy.
It is recommended not to take Elemental Iron+folic Acid along with tea, coffee, milk or eggs as the body might absorb less iron supplements if you take them together, which may reduce the effectiveness of Elemental Iron+folic Acid.
Elemental Iron+folic Acid is best absorbed if taken on an empty stomach. But in some patients, it causes an upset stomach if taken on an empty stomach. So, please take it as suggested by your doctor if you have an upset stomach problem.
If you are pregnant, it is necessary to maintain the right levels of folic acid to reduce the risk of neural tube defects as the baby's central nervous system develops. So, to avoid any defect, it is necessary to take it for the first three months as the neural tube is formed completely by this time.
