Foulad

Indications

Qurs Faulad is a traditional Unani tablet (qurs means tablet; faulad means iron or steel) that contains a specially processed form of iron, often together with herbs. It is traditionally used for anaemia (a low level of red blood cells or haemoglobin) and the tiredness, weakness and pale skin that come with it, and as a general tonic. The amount of iron it provides can differ from that of standard iron tablets.

How It Works

Iron is needed to make haemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. Replacing iron in people who lack it helps the body build up red blood cells again, which over several weeks can ease tiredness and breathlessness caused by iron deficiency.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner. Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach, but can be taken after food if it upsets the stomach. Avoid tea, coffee, milk and antacids within 2 hours of a dose, as they reduce absorption; a glass of orange juice or other vitamin C source may help absorption.

Interactions

Iron reduces the absorption of some antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Doxycycline and Tetracycline, and of Levothyroxine, so separate them by at least 2 to 4 hours. Antacids, Calcium supplements, Omeprazole and similar medicines can reduce iron absorption. Do not take it together with other iron-containing products unless a doctor advises it.

Contraindications

• Iron overload conditions such as haemochromatosis, or frequent blood transfusions.
• Anaemia not caused by iron deficiency, such as thalassaemia, unless a doctor advises it.
• Allergy to any ingredient.
• Children, unless a practitioner or doctor advises it.

Side Effects

Common effects include nausea, stomach pain, constipation or loose stools, and dark or black stools. Black stools from iron are expected and harmless, but they can hide bleeding.

Get urgent medical help if you have vomiting blood, black tarry stools with stomach pain or dizziness, severe abdominal pain, or signs of a serious 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 iron products recommended by their doctor or antenatal clinic, where the dose is known. Ask a doctor before using this product.

Precautions and Warnings

Anaemia should be confirmed with a blood test, and its cause found, before long-term treatment. People with thalassaemia trait, which is common in Bangladesh, should not take iron unless tests show they lack it. Keep iron products well away from children, because iron poisoning in children can be fatal.

Overdose

Iron overdose is dangerous, especially in children. Early signs are vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach pain, which may seem to settle before serious liver, heart and blood pressure problems develop. If a child swallows any extra tablets, get emergency medical help at once, even if they seem well.

Therapeutic Class

Unani herbal and mineral preparation (iron tonic).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.