ferrous sulfate

Pronunciation: FARE us SUL fate

Brand: Feosol, Fer-In-Sol, Ferrousal, Slow Fe, Slow Release Iron

Ferrous Sulfate

slide 1 of 2, Ferrous Sulfate,

324 mg, round, red

Image of Ferrous Sulfate
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Ferrous Sulfate

slide 2 of 2, Ferrous Sulfate,

325 mg, round, red

Image of Ferrous Sulfate
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What is the most important information I should know about ferrous sulfate?

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

What is ferrous sulfate?

Ferrous sulfate is a type of iron. You normally get iron from the foods you eat. In the body, iron helps your blood carry oxygen to tissues and organs and helps your muscle cells store oxygen.

Ferrous sulfate is used to treat iron deficiency.

Ferrous sulfate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss before taking ferrous sulfate?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:

  • iron overload syndrome;
  • a red blood cell disorder such as thalassemia; or
  • a condition for which you receive regular blood transfusions.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give ferrous sulfate to a child without medical advice.

How should I take ferrous sulfate?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

You may need to follow a special diet. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods you should eat or avoid.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Get emergency medical help if a child has accidentally swallowed a tablet. An overdose of iron can be fatal to a young child.

Overdose symptoms may include severe vomiting, coughing up blood, bloody diarrhea, urinating less, thirst, dry skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, or fainting.

What should I avoid while taking ferrous sulfate?

Avoid taking other iron supplements. Do not take any vitamin or mineral supplements without asking a doctor or pharmacist.

What are the possible side effects of ferrous sulfate?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

  • severe stomach pain or vomiting;
  • cough with bloody mucus or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
  • fever; or
  • bloody or tarry stools.

Common side effects may include:

  • diarrhea, constipation;
  • nausea, stomach pain;
  • green-colored stools; or
  • loss of appetite.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect ferrous sulfate?

Take your ferrous sulfate dose 2 to 6 hours before or after taking any of the following:

  • an antacid;
  • an antibiotic; or
  • a laxative.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect ferrous sulfate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about ferrous sulfate.

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