Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

IRON/VITAMIN C/VITAMIN B12/INTRINSIC FACTOR - ORAL

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Contrin, Fergon Plus, Foltrin, Trinsicon

WARNING: Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6 years of age. Keep this product out of reach of children. If an accidental overdose does occur, seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center.

Uses

Iron is the major transporter of oxygen in the body. Vitamin C helps the body absorb the iron. Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) is important to the body for growth, cell production, blood and nerve function. Intrinsic factor enhances the absorption of Vitamin B12. This combination medication is used in the treatment of anemia or "iron-poor" blood.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth as directed. It may be taken with food or a meal if stomach upset occurs. Take each dose with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Swallow it whole. Do not crush or chew. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. Do not exceed recommended dosage.

Side Effects

This medication is generally well tolerated. Constipation or stomach upset may occur. Notify your doctor if you experience vomiting, stomach cramps, or skin rash while taking this drug. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor of any illnesses or allergies you may have. Ingestion of alcohol may increase the chance of stomach upset. Accidental overdose of iron-containing products can be very dangerous and even fatal. Keep this medication out of the reach of children. If overdose occurs, call a doctor or poison control center immediately. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this drug are excreted into breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially any vitamin products, antacids or antibiotics. Avoid taking any tetracycline antibiotic within 1 to 2 hours of taking this since the iron component may interfere with the absorption of tetracycline. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include unconsciousness, paleness, weak-rapid heartbeat, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or green diarrhea/tarry stools.

Notes

Blood tests may be done to check your response to this medication. It is important to maintain a well balanced diet to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of the reach of children.