Ferrous ascorbate: Uses, How It Works, Medicines
Ferrous ascorbate is an iron salt used as a supplement to replace iron when the body is short of it. Iron is needed to make red blood cells that carry oxygen. A doctor should confirm that low iron is the cause of anaemia, because the cause, such as blood loss, also needs to be found.
Also known as: Iron ascorbate, Iron supplement, Iron tablet, Ferrous ascorbate 100 mg, Elemental iron
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How does Ferrous ascorbate work?
The body uses iron to make haemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen. An iron supplement supplies the iron the body is missing so it can make healthy red blood cells again.
How to take Ferrous ascorbate
Follow the label or your doctor's advice. The NHS says iron tablets are usually taken for about six months for iron deficiency anaemia, but your doctor decides the amount and how long.
Side effects of Ferrous ascorbate
Iron tablets often upset the stomach. These effects are usually mild and the NHS advises carrying on unless the doctor says otherwise.
Uncommon or mild
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Stomach pain or heartburn
- Feeling sick
- Darker than usual stools
Rare but serious: get medical help
- Swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing (severe allergic reaction). Call 112
- Black, sticky stools with stomach pain, or vomiting blood (the dark colour from iron is harmless, but these signs need a doctor)
Who should be careful
Some people should check with a doctor before taking iron, and iron must be kept away from children.
When the label says not to use it
- Allergy to iron or any ingredient of the product
- Too much iron in the body (for example haemochromatosis) unless a doctor advises
- Keep iron tablets out of the reach of children: the NHS warns that an iron overdose in a young child can be fatal
- Anaemia without a known cause: a doctor should look for the cause, such as heavy periods or bleeding in the gut
- Stomach ulcer, bowel inflammation or constipation problems: ask your doctor
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: take iron only on a doctor's advice about the right amount
Medicines and things that interact with Ferrous ascorbate
Iron can stop some medicines being absorbed, and some foods and medicines reduce how much iron is absorbed. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take.
- Calcium supplements and antacids: can reduce iron absorption; keep a gap
- Thyroid tablets such as levothyroxine: keep a gap between doses
- Some antibiotics, including tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones: keep a gap between doses
- Acid-reducing medicines: can reduce iron absorption
- Tea, coffee, milk and dairy foods: the NHS says they can reduce how much iron is absorbed
If someone takes too much
Too much iron is dangerous, especially in children. If someone has swallowed more than the label says, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital straight away and take the pack with you. Do not wait for symptoms.
Regulatory status in India
Sold in India as an iron supplement. Whether a product is licensed as a medicine or a food supplement, and any prescription status, must be read from the pack. Combinations that include ferrous ascorbate differ by product, so check the label.
Type of medicine
Ferrous ascorbate belongs to this type of medicine.
Medicines that contain Ferrous ascorbate
These medicines sold in India contain Ferrous ascorbate. They are listed A to Z, not ranked.
- Orofer XT · VERIFY on pack tablet
What is Ferrous ascorbate used for?
Combination medicines that contain Ferrous ascorbate are used for these conditions.
Other medicines of the same type
These active ingredients are of the same type as Ferrous ascorbate.
Common questions
What is ferrous ascorbate used for?
It is an iron supplement used to replace iron when the body is short of it, such as in iron deficiency anaemia. A doctor should confirm low iron with a blood test and look for the cause, which may be heavy periods, pregnancy or bleeding in the gut.
Why do iron tablets make stools dark?
Iron that is not absorbed is passed out in the stool and darkens it. This is common and usually harmless. The NHS lists darker stools as a possible side effect. If stools are black and sticky with stomach pain, or you vomit blood, see a doctor.
How can I reduce stomach upset from iron tablets?
The NHS says taking the tablet with or soon after food may reduce side effects, and that you should keep taking it even if side effects occur. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if it is hard to tolerate. Do not stop without asking.
Are iron tablets dangerous for children?
Yes. The NHS warns that an iron overdose in a young child can be fatal. Keep all iron tablets out of sight and reach of children. If a child has swallowed any, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital straight away.
Sources
- Iron. NHS (UK)
- Iron deficiency anaemia. NHS (UK)