Ferrous fumarate

Ferrous fumarate
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration	Oral
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number	141-01-5
PubChem	2723790
DrugBank	DB06782
ChemSpider	2006320
KEGG	D07910

Ferrous fumarate is an iron supplement used to treat or prevent low blood levels of iron (such as those caused by anemia or pregnancy). Iron is an important mineral that the body needs to produce red blood cells and keep you in good health.

Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

Ferrous fumarate is a type of iron supplement that provides the body with iron in the form of ferrous ions. Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. It is also a component of myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to muscles, and is necessary for the function of several enzymes involved in energy metabolism.

Pharmacokinetics

After oral administration, ferrous fumarate is absorbed primarily in the duodenum and upper jejunum of the small intestine. The absorption of iron is enhanced by the presence of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and is inhibited by substances such as calcium, phosphates, and phytates. Once absorbed, iron is transported in the blood bound to transferrin and is stored in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow as ferritin or hemosiderin.

Clinical Use

Indications

Ferrous fumarate is indicated for the treatment and prevention of iron deficiency anemia. It is commonly used in:

• Pregnancy
• Menstruation
• Chronic kidney disease
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Malabsorption syndromes

Dosage and Administration

Ferrous fumarate is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid suspensions. The typical adult dose for iron deficiency anemia is 100-200 mg of elemental iron per day, divided into two or three doses. The specific dosage may vary based on the severity of the deficiency and the patient's response to treatment.

Adverse Effects

Common side effects of ferrous fumarate include:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Less common but more serious side effects can include:

• Allergic reactions
• Black stools (a common and harmless side effect due to unabsorbed iron)

Contraindications

Ferrous fumarate should not be used in individuals with:

• Hemochromatosis
• Hemosiderosis
• Iron overload syndromes

Interactions

Ferrous fumarate can interact with several medications, including:

• Antacids
• Tetracyclines
• Quinolones
• Levothyroxine

These interactions can reduce the absorption of iron or the interacting drug, so it is recommended to separate the administration of these medications by at least 2 hours.

Storage

Ferrous fumarate should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should be kept out of reach of children, as iron overdose can be fatal in young children.

See Also

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Iron supplements
• Hemoglobin

External Links

• Drugs.com: Ferrous Fumarate
• MedlinePlus: Ferrous Fumarate