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 WITH ASCORBIC ACID - ORAL CHEWABLE TABLET

(EYE-urn WITH ask-OR-bick acid)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Hemocyte-C, Vitron-C

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 an important mineral used by red blood cells to carry oxygen through the body. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) improves the absorption of iron from the stomach. This medication is used as a dietary supplement to prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia.

How To Use

This medication is usually taken once a day as directed. This medication is best taken on an empty stomach but may be taken with meals if stomach upset occurs. Take this medication with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. Chew tablets thoroughly before swallowing. Do not exceed recommended dosage.

Side Effects

Most people can take this medication with minimal or no side effects. Stomach upset may occur. Stools may appear darker in color due to the iron. Do not be alarmed. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Do not take ferrous sulfate (iron) without consulting a doctor if you have: ulcers, colitis, intestinal diseases. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Because ferrous sulfate can cause false results in tests for blood in the stools, tell the doctor or laboratory personnel that you take ferrous sulfate. Eggs and milk decrease iron absorption. Coffee and tea that is drunk with a meal or 1 hour after a meal may also decrease iron absorption. 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.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: chloramphenicol, penicillamine, methyldopa, levodopa, cimetidine, quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin). Avoid taking iron at the same time as antacids or tetracycline antibiotics. Wait at least two hours between taking iron and an antacid or 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. If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Some iron products contain vitamin C which is believed to increase iron absorption. There are many iron supplement products available. Some can be purchased without a prescription. Consult your doctor or pharmacist on the choice of a product best for you. This medication is not a substitute to proper diet. It is important to maintain a well balanced diet. Foods rich in iron include beans, nuts, asparagus, oatmeal, red meat, dried peaches, and pork liver.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember; do not take if it is almost 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 at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of the reach of children.