Haematinic

Haematinic is a type of medication that is used to increase the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood. These medications are often used to treat anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. Haematinics can include iron supplements, vitamin B12, folic acid, and other nutrients necessary for the production of red blood cells.

Types of Haematinics

There are several types of haematinics, each of which serves a different purpose in the body:

• Iron supplements: Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, and a deficiency can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Iron supplements can be taken orally or intravenously.

• Vitamin B12: This vitamin is necessary for the production of red blood cells. A deficiency can lead to pernicious anemia.

• Folic acid: Folic acid is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells, especially during periods of rapid cell division and growth such as infancy and pregnancy.

Uses of Haematinics

Haematinics are used to treat various types of anemia, including:

• Iron-deficiency anemia: This is the most common type of anemia and is usually treated with iron supplements.

• Pernicious anemia: This type of anemia is caused by a lack of vitamin B12 and is usually treated with vitamin B12 supplements.

• Folic acid-deficiency anemia: This type of anemia is caused by a lack of folic acid and is usually treated with folic acid supplements.

Side Effects of Haematinics

Like all medications, haematinics can have side effects. These can include:

• Stomach upset: This can occur with iron supplements and can be minimized by taking the supplement with food.

• Constipation: This is a common side effect of iron supplements.

• Allergic reactions: These can occur with any medication, including haematinics.

See Also

• Anemia
• Iron-deficiency anemia
• Pernicious anemia
• Folic acid-deficiency anemia

Haematinic Resources
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