iron heme polypep-folic acid 12 mg-1 mg tablet

Generic name:
Heme iron polypeptide/folic acid - oral

Pronunciation
(heem iron poly-PEP-tide/FOE-lick)

Brand name(s)
Proferrin-Forte

This product contains iron which is a major cause of death due to poisoning in children less than 6 years old. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

If an overdose occurs, contact your local poison control center or emergency room right away (see Overdose section).

Heme iron polypeptide is a form of iron supplement. It is used to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia (low red blood cell count). Certain medical conditions may increase the risk of iron deficiency (such as pregnancy, certain types of surgery, chemotherapy, kidney failure).

This medication is typically used in people who cannot absorb or tolerate regular iron products (such as ferrous sulfate).

Folic acid is a B-vitamin used to treat certain anemias due to poor diet, pregnancy, and other conditions.

Take this medication by mouth usually once or twice daily with or without meals; or as directed by your doctor. Take this medication with a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication.

The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice any unusual effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to meat products; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• iron metabolism disorders (such as hemochromatosis)
• other types of anemia (such as pernicious anemia)

This product is made from the red blood cells of cows. If you prefer not to use products made from animal sources, consult your doctor regarding other products that contain iron.

This medication is safe to use during pregnancy when taken as directed by your doctor.

It is unknown if the iron in this product passes into breast milk. Folic acid passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Some drugs that may interact with this product include:

• antacids
• phenytoin

Iron supplements can decrease the absorption of drugs such as tetracycline antibiotics (including doxycycline, minocycline), penicillamine, bisphosphonates (including alendronate), cefdinir, chloramphenicol, levothyroxine, levodopa, and quinolone antibiotics (including ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin). Separate your doses of these medications as far as possible from your doses of iron. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how long you should wait between doses and for help finding a dosing schedule that will work with all your medications.

This product may interfere with certain lab tests (such as testing for blood in stools), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this product.

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include: vomiting, severe stomach upset.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as vitamin B12 levels) may be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

Do not share this medication with others.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.