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 W/STOOL SOFTENER - ORAL SUSTAINED RELEASE CAPSULE, TABLET

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, an essential mineral, is the major transporter of oxygen in the body. It is used to prevent or treat anemia or "iron-poor" blood. A stool softener is added to help prevent constipation caused by the iron.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth as directed. It is best taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water (8 oz or 240 ml). However, if stomach upset occurs, this may be taken with or just after a meal. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. Swallow medication whole. Do not crush or chew the drug. Do not exceed recommended dosage.

Side Effects

This medication is generally well tolerated. Constipation, diarrhea, dark stools, nausea or stomach upset may occur. Notify your doctor if you experience: vomiting, stomach cramps, skin rash, extreme weakness. In order to prevent constipation, increase the amount of fiber in your diet by eating more bran, fresh fruits and vegetables. Also drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day and exercise regularly. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication is found in 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 of: vitamin products, antacids, antibiotics. Avoid taking any oral 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

Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6 years. If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include diarrhea; tiredness; nausea; vomiting; stomach pain; tarry stools; weak, fast heartbeat; seizures; and loss of consciousness.

Notes

Periodic 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 iron, vitamins and minerals. Good sources of iron include meats especially liver, eggs, raisins, figs, broccoli, brussels sprouts, beans, lentils and iron fortified or enriched cereals.

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 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of the reach of children.