Indications
This is a micronutrient powder containing 15 vitamins and minerals, supplied in single-dose sachets. It is used for home fortification of food: the powder is sprinkled onto a child’s meal to help prevent and reduce iron-deficiency anaemia and other vitamin and mineral deficiencies. It is mainly intended for young children, usually from 6 months to 5 years of age, as part of public health and nutrition programmes, and may also be recommended for other groups by a health worker.
How It Works
The powder provides small daily amounts of nutrients that young children often lack, typically including iron, zinc, vitamin A, folic acid, iodine and other vitamins and minerals. The iron is coated so that it does not change the taste or colour of food much. Regular use helps build up iron stores and supports normal growth, immunity and development.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the pack or by a health worker; usually one sachet is given per day or on the schedule set by the programme. Mix the whole sachet into a small portion of the child’s soft or semi-solid food (such as rice, khichuri or mashed food) after it has been cooked and cooled to eating temperature, and make sure the child eats all of that portion within about 30 minutes. Do not add it to liquids, hot food or food that will be cooked again. Do not share one sachet between children.
Interactions
- Do not give with other iron or multivitamin supplements unless a doctor or health worker advises it.
- Iron can reduce the absorption of some antibiotics (such as Tetracyclines and Ciprofloxacin) and thyroid medicine; keep a gap of at least 2 hours.
Contraindications
- Children already receiving iron syrup or tablets for anaemia, unless advised by a doctor.
- Conditions with iron overload, such as thalassaemia major requiring regular blood transfusions.
- Known allergy to any ingredient.
Side Effects
It is usually well tolerated. Some children may have dark stools (normal with iron), mild stomach upset, constipation or loose stools in the first days.
Get urgent medical help if a child swallows several sachets at once, or develops severe vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, drowsiness or a rash with swelling or breathing difficulty. Also see a doctor if a child has high fever, especially in malaria-affected areas.
Pregnancy and Lactation
This product is designed for young children. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use the iron, folic acid or multivitamin supplements recommended for them by their doctor or health worker.
Precautions and Warnings
Keep sachets out of reach of children, as too much iron is dangerous for them. In areas with malaria, use it alongside malaria prevention and treatment as advised by health services. Children who are severely malnourished or ill should be seen by a health worker first. Continue breastfeeding and a varied diet; the powder is not a substitute for food.
Overdose
Swallowing several sachets can cause iron poisoning, with vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and drowsiness, which can be serious in young children. Take the child to hospital immediately with the pack.
Therapeutic Class
Multiple micronutrient powder; vitamin and mineral supplement for home food fortification.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep sachets sealed until use.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.