Ferric Maltol Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 2, 2025.

Applies to ferric maltol: oral capsule.

Precautions

It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly. Blood tests will be needed to check for unwanted effects.

In case of an accidental overdose, call your doctor or get emergency help right away. Signs of an overdose include: confusion, diarrhea, drowsiness, muscle tremors, nausea, rapid, deep breathing, stomach pain or cramps, unusual tiredness or weakness, or vomiting.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Common side effects of ferric maltol

Some side effects of ferric maltol may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Serious side effects of ferric maltol

Along with its needed effects, ferric maltol may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking ferric maltol:

Symptoms of overdose

• Confusion
• diarrhea
• drowsiness
• muscle tremors
• nausea
• rapid, deep breathing
• restlessness
• stomach pain or cramps
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting

For healthcare professionals

Applies to ferric maltol: oral capsule.

General adverse events

The most common adverse events were gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation, abdominal discomfort/distension, diarrhea), mostly of mild to moderate severity.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation, abdominal discomfort/distension, diarrhea, nausea, faeces discolored, vomiting
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Acne, erythema^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Gamma-glutamyltransferase increased^[Ref]

Other

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Blood alkaline phosphatase increased^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Thirst^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Joint stiffness, pain in extremity^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Headache^[Ref]

Endocrine

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Blood thyroid stimulating hormone increased^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Ferric maltol side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer