Ferrous Fumarate

Brand Names of Ferrous Fumarate: Ferrograd, Fersamal, Galfer

What is Ferrous Fumarate?

  • Ferrous Fumarate is an iron supplement used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anaemia.

How Does it Work and Why is it Important to Take?

  • Iron aids in the production of healthy red blood cells, which are crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body.

  • Taking Ferrous Fumarate is essential for addressing iron deficiency, preventing symptoms like fatigue and weakness.

The Dose of The Medication

  • The dose of Ferrous Fumarate varies based on the prescribed preparation: 210mg tablet, 322mg tablet, and 305mg capsule.

How and When to Take It

  • Usually taken once a day.

  • If tolerance is an issue, your clinician may suggest taking it on alternate days.

  • Best taken on an empty stomach, an hour before or two hours after food. If it upsets your stomach, taking it with food is acceptable.

  • Your clinician may advise taking it with vitamin C or orange juice to enhance iron absorption, but avoid milk as it can hinder absorption.

What to Expect

  • If taken to prevent anaemia, you may not feel any different, but it's crucial to continue.

  • Those treating anaemia may start feeling better after a week, with full effects felt after a month or potentially longer.

What to Do if You Miss a Dose

  • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

  • If the next scheduled dose is within 12 hours, skip the missed one—never double up.

Possible Side Effects

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Stomach pain

  • Indigestion

  • Loss of appetite

  • Constipation

  • Diarrhoea

  • Dark stool

Management of Side Effects

  • Click here for common side effects and how to manage them.

  • Some side effects improve as your body adjusts.

  • If severe, persistent or bothersome side effects occur, consult your GP, local pharmacy, or NHS 111.

Common Interactions

  • Inform your clinician about all medications, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements.

  • Interactions may occur with supplements containing calcium, iron, magnesium, or zinc, as well as antacids and laxatives with magnesium.

Special Warnings

  • Keep Ferrous Fumarate out of sight and reach of children, as overdoses can be fatal.

  • Allow a 2-hour gap before consuming tea, coffee, milk, dairy, and eggs to ensure proper absorption.

Monitoring Your Progress

  • Regular check-ups with your GP clinician are important to monitor your response to the medication and assess any potential side effects.

Where to Find More Information and Who to Contact

  • Refer to the patient information leaflet and the NHS website for more details.

  • If you have questions or experience unusual symptoms, contact your GP clinician, local pharmacy, or NHS 111.