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Ferretts Iron

Generic name: ferrous fumarate [ FER-us-FUE-ma-rate ]
Brand names: Ferretts Iron, Hemocyte
Drug class: Iron products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 11, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Ferretts Iron?

Ferretts Iron is a type of iron. You normally get iron from the foods you eat. In your body, iron becomes a part of your hemoglobin (HEEM o glo bin) and myoglobin (MY o glo bin). Hemoglobin carries oxygen through your blood to tissues and organs. Myoglobin helps your muscle cells store oxygen.

Ferretts Iron is used to treat iron deficiency anemia (a lack of red blood cells caused by having too little iron in the body).

Ferretts Iron may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Ferretts Iron side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Ferretts Iron may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of Ferretts Iron may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Ferretts Iron side effects (more detail)

Warnings

You should not use Ferretts Iron if you have iron overload syndrome, or other red blood cell disorders.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if a child has accidentally swallowed it. An overdose of ferrous fumarate can be fatal to a child younger than 6 years old.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Ferretts Iron if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Ferretts Iron is safe to use if you have ever had:

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

Do not give Ferretts Iron to a child without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take Ferretts Iron?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take Ferretts Iron on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Take with food if Ferretts Iron upsets your stomach.

You may need frequent medical tests.

You may need to follow a special diet while using Ferretts Iron. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods to eat to make sure you get enough iron from both your diet and your medication.

Do not take this medicine for longer than 6 months without a doctor's advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Detailed Ferretts Iron dosage information

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if you think you have used too much of Ferretts Iron, or if a child has accidentally swallowed it. An overdose of Ferretts Iron can be fatal to a child younger than 6 years old.

Overdose symptoms may include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cold or clammy skin, blue lips, and loss of consciousness.

What should I avoid while taking ferrous fumarate?

Avoid eating foods that are high fiber at the same time you take your Ferretts Iron dose. High-fiber foods include whole grains, raw vegetables, and bran.

Avoid milk or other dairy products for at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take Ferretts Iron.

Do not take any vitamin or mineral supplements that your doctor has not prescribed or recommended.

What other drugs will affect Ferretts Iron?

Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you take, which may increase side effects or make the medications less effective. Ask your doctor how much time to allow between your Ferretts Iron dose and other medicines you use, especially:

Other drugs may affect Ferretts Iron, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Ferretts Iron drug interactions (more detail)

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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