What is Ferric maltol?
Ferric maltol, also known as iron replacement therapy (IRT), is a product used by adults to treat iron deficiencies. Ferric maltol can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Ferric maltol
If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, difficulty hives or swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat seek medical advice immediately. In case you develop signs or symptoms associated with inflammation bowel diseases like stomach cramps diarrhea blood in stool loss of appetite weight gain cease taking ferric maltol immediately and contact your physician as well.
Side effects of ferric maltol include:
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Stomach pain, bloating, gas, nausea, and vomiting;
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Diarrhea, constipation;
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Alterations to your bowel movements
There may be other adverse side effects. To get medical advice or report adverse reactions, call your physician immediately; alternatively you can reach the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report it.
Warnings
Do not use it other than as directed. Inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking or if you have allergies or other medical conditions.
Before you take this drug
Ferric maltol should not be used if:
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Iron overload (the accumulation of excess iron) or hemochromatosis.
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If you've had repeated blood transfusions,
If you've ever had inflammation of the bowel, tell your doctor.
Inform your doctor of any pregnancy or plans to become pregnant. Ferric maltol can be absorbed without harming an unborn child. Untreated iron deficiency in pregnancy can increase the risk of anemia, premature birth, or low birthweight. Treating iron deficiency using ferric maltol can be beneficial to both mother and baby. Ferric maltol will not pass into your breast milk. If you are nursing, ask your doctor if ferric maltol is safe to use. Under no circumstance may anyone under 18 use this product.
How to take Ferric maltol?
Be sure to read all instructions or guides that accompany your medication and follow all directions carefully, following both label directions as well as its own specific recommendations. Specifically, do not consume anything for at least an hour and two hours prior to taking ferric maltol pills, crushing, chewing or breaking capsules are prohibited and it should only be taken once every 12 weeks without needing further medical tests to assess dosage length and frequency - store away from heat, moisture and at room temperature to preserve quality storage conditions for this medication.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for iron deficiency:
Take 30 mg twice daily, one hour before or two hours after eating.
Duration of treatment:
Comments:
The duration of treatment depends on the severity and type of iron deficiency, but in general, at least 12 weeks are needed.
Continue treatment until the ferritin level is within the normal range.
Use: iron deficiency
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you miss a dosage, call your doctor to get instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line immediately on 1-800-222-1222, or seek emergency medical attention, if a child accidentally consumes an iron-containing tablet; an iron overdose could even prove fatal for young victims and symptoms may include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea; confusion, agitation or feeling light-headed can also arise due to iron ingestion.
What should be avoided?
Avoid taking dimercaprol, iron, or vitamin or mineral supplements that have not been prescribed by your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
Ferric maltol taken at the same time as other oral medications may interfere with their absorption by your body. Ferric maltol should be taken 4 hours before or 4 hours after any other oral medications. Ferric maltol can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.
