Indications
Ferric Ammonium Citrate is an iron salt found mainly in iron syrups and tonics, often combined with vitamins such as Folic Acid and vitamin B12. It is used to prevent and treat iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia (a low red blood cell count due to lack of iron), which can cause tiredness, weakness, pale skin and breathlessness. It is commonly used during pregnancy, after blood loss, during growth spurts and when the diet is low in iron.
How It Works
Iron is needed to make haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. Ferric Ammonium Citrate supplies iron that is absorbed from the gut and used by the bone marrow to make new red blood cells and to refill the body’s iron stores.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by your doctor, as the strength varies between products. Syrups are usually taken after meals to reduce stomach upset. Measure each dose with the measuring cup or spoon provided. Taking it with orange juice or vitamin C may help absorption, while tea, coffee and milk should be avoided for 1 to 2 hours around each dose. Treatment usually continues for about 3 months after blood levels return to normal to rebuild iron stores. Liquid iron can stain teeth; use a straw or rinse the mouth afterwards.
Interactions
- Antacids, calcium, zinc and magnesium products: reduce iron absorption; take 2 hours apart.
- Tetracycline, Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin and Levofloxacin: iron reduces their absorption; take at least 2 hours apart.
- Levothyroxine, Levodopa, Penicillamine and bisphosphonates: separate doses by at least 2 hours.
- Omeprazole and similar acid-reducing medicines: may reduce iron absorption.
Contraindications
Do not use if you have iron overload (haemochromatosis or haemosiderosis), anaemia not caused by iron deficiency (such as thalassaemia or haemolytic anaemia) unless a doctor advises, repeated blood transfusions, or allergy to any ingredient.
Side Effects
- Nausea, stomach pain or discomfort.
- Constipation or diarrhoea.
- Dark or black stools (this is harmless).
- Temporary staining of the teeth.
Get urgent medical help if you have black, tarry stools with stomach pain, vomiting blood, severe stomach pain, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. Also seek help at once if a child swallows iron accidentally.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Iron supplements are commonly recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding to prevent and treat anaemia. Use the dose advised by your doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
Have the cause of anaemia checked by a doctor before long-term use. Tell your doctor if you have stomach ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease or alcohol problems. Do not take other iron products at the same time unless advised. Syrups may contain sugar, which matters for people with diabetes.
Overdose
Iron overdose is dangerous, especially in young children, and can be fatal. Early signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and drowsiness; serious damage to the liver and other organs can follow after apparent improvement. Seek emergency medical help at once, even if the person seems well.
Therapeutic Class
Iron preparation (haematinic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children, as iron poisoning is a serious risk for children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.