Indications
Sodium Feredetate Trihydrate (also called sodium iron edetate) is an iron supplement used to prevent and treat iron deficiency anaemia, a low red blood cell or haemoglobin level caused by lack of iron. It is often used as an oral solution for infants, children, pregnant women and others who need iron but find other iron forms hard to take.
How It Works
The iron is held in a stable complex with edetate, which protects it in the stomach and allows it to be released and absorbed in the gut. The body uses this iron to make haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Restoring iron levels improves tiredness, weakness and paleness caused by anaemia.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by your doctor, because the dose depends on age, body weight and the strength of the product. Children’s doses are worked out by age or weight. Use the measuring spoon or syringe provided. It is best taken between meals with water or juice; if it upsets the stomach, it can be taken with food. Treatment usually continues for some months after haemoglobin returns to normal, to refill iron stores.
Interactions
Antacids, calcium supplements, tea, coffee, milk and eggs can reduce iron absorption; take them at least 2 hours apart. Iron reduces the absorption of Tetracycline, Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin and other quinolones, Levothyroxine, Penicillamine and some bisphosphonates; separate doses by at least 2 hours. Vitamin C (such as orange juice) can improve absorption.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredient, or in iron overload conditions such as haemochromatosis or haemosiderosis, in anaemia not caused by iron deficiency (for example thalassaemia or haemolytic anaemia) unless a doctor advises, or in people receiving repeated blood transfusions.
Side Effects
Common effects include nausea, stomach discomfort, diarrhoea or constipation, and dark or black stools (this is harmless). The liquid may temporarily stain the teeth; rinsing the mouth or using a straw can help.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, black tarry stools with weakness or dizziness, or signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Iron supplements are commonly used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding to prevent or treat iron deficiency. Take the dose recommended by your doctor or midwife.
Precautions and Warnings
Have your anaemia confirmed by a blood test, as tiredness may have other causes. Do not take other iron products at the same time unless advised. Tell your doctor if you have stomach ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease or liver disease. Keep away from children: accidental iron overdose is a common and serious poisoning in young children.
Overdose
Iron overdose is dangerous, especially in children. Early signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and drowsiness; serious liver and heart effects can follow even after early improvement. Seek emergency medical help immediately if more than the recommended dose is taken.
Therapeutic Class
Iron preparation (haematinic)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Use within the period stated on the label after opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.