Indications
This is a Unani iron tonic, a liquid preparation that combines a source of iron with traditional herbs. It is traditionally used for weakness, tiredness and paleness due to iron deficiency anaemia (low blood), during recovery from illness, and to support appetite and general strength. The amount of iron in such tonics is often lower or less certain than in standard iron medicines, so anaemia confirmed by a blood test is usually better treated with an iron medicine prescribed by a doctor. Scientific evidence for the herbal components is limited.
How It Works
Iron is needed to make haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. When iron is low, the body makes fewer and smaller red blood cells, which causes tiredness, breathlessness and paleness. Iron from the tonic is absorbed in the gut and used to rebuild iron stores and haemoglobin over several weeks. In Unani theory the added herbs support digestion and strength.
Dosage and Administration
Take by mouth as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually after meals. Taking it with vitamin C rich foods (such as lemon or orange) may help iron absorption, while tea, coffee and milk taken at the same time reduce it. Do not exceed the stated dose. Children should take only the dose on the label or advised by a practitioner.
Interactions
- Iron reduces absorption of some antibiotics (such as Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Doxycycline and Tetracycline), Levothyroxine and some osteoporosis medicines; keep at least 2 to 4 hours apart.
- Antacids, calcium supplements and acid reducing medicines (such as Omeprazole) may reduce iron absorption.
- Do not take with other iron products unless a doctor advises it.
Contraindications
Do not use if you have iron overload (such as haemochromatosis or thalassaemia with high iron), anaemia not caused by iron deficiency unless advised, or allergy to any ingredient. People with diabetes should check whether the tonic contains sugar.
Side Effects
Possible effects include nausea, stomach upset, constipation or diarrhoea, black stools (harmless, from iron) and temporary staining of the teeth.
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 swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Iron is often needed in pregnancy, but pregnant and breastfeeding women should use an iron product recommended by their doctor. Ask a doctor before using a herbal iron tonic, because the safety of the herbal ingredients is not established.
Precautions and Warnings
- See a doctor to find the cause of anaemia, especially if you are a man, a woman after menopause, or have weight loss or blood in the stool.
- Dilute with water and rinse the mouth or use a straw to reduce tooth staining.
- Keep out of reach of children: iron poisoning in children is dangerous.
Overdose
Iron overdose is a medical emergency, especially in children. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, black or bloody stools, drowsiness and collapse; there may be a period of seeming recovery before serious liver damage. Get emergency medical help straight away even if the person seems well.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal haematinic (iron tonic).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from light, with the cap tightly closed and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.