Hematinic

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Hematinic is a type of medication that is used to increase the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood. These medications are often used to treat conditions such as anemia.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Hematinics are a group of medicines that contain components needed for the production of red blood cells. These components include iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid. Hematinics are often used to treat anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood.

Types of Hematinics[edit | edit source]

There are several types of hematinics, including:

  • Iron supplements: These are often used to treat iron-deficiency anemia. Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
  • Vitamin B12 supplements: These are used to treat pernicious anemia, a type of anemia caused by a lack of vitamin B12.
  • Folic acid supplements: These are used to treat certain types of anemia caused by a deficiency of folic acid.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medications, hematinics can cause side effects. These may include:

  • Stomach upset
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Black stools

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Hematinic Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD