A fixed-dose combination oral hematinic agent containing 100mg of elemental iron as ferrous ascorbate and 1.5mg of folic acid. It is a first-line therapy for the treatment and prevention of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and folate deficiency anemia, particularly in high-risk populations like pregnant women in India. The ascorbate moiety enhances iron absorption and reduces gastric irritation.
Adult: One tablet once daily, preferably on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after food). For severe anemia, one tablet twice daily as directed by physician.
Note: Swallow whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew. To enhance absorption and reduce gastric upset, take on an empty stomach. If GI intolerance occurs, may be taken with a small amount of food, avoiding dairy, tea, coffee, and high-fiber foods concurrently.
Ferrous Ascorbate provides elemental iron, a critical component of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and various enzymes. Folic Acid acts as a cofactor in one-carbon transfer reactions essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and amino acid metabolism. The combination corrects deficiencies in both, synergistically supporting erythropoiesis.
Pregnancy: Category A (US FDA). Widely used and recommended in pregnancy for prevention of maternal anemia and neural tube defects (NTDs) in the fetus. The 1.5mg dose is standard in Indian antenatal protocols.
Driving: No known effects. Dizziness, if experienced, may impair ability.
| Antacids, Proton Pump Inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole), H2 Blockers (e.g., Ranitidine) | Reduce gastric acidity, impairing iron absorption. | Moderate |
| Tetracyclines, Quinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin), Bisphosphonates (e.g., Alendronate) | Iron binds to these drugs in the GI tract, reducing absorption of both. Administer at least 2-3 hours apart. | Major |
| Levothyroxine | Iron can decrease its absorption, reducing efficacy. | Major |
| Chloramphenicol | May delay the hematinic response to iron therapy. | Moderate |
| Methotrexate, Trimethoprim, Pyrimethamine | Folic acid can interfere with the therapeutic effect of these folate antagonists. | Major |
| Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Primidone | Folic acid may decrease serum levels of these anticonvulsants, potentially reducing seizure control. | Major |
Same composition (Ferrous Ascorbate (100mg) + Folic Acid (1.5mg)), different brands: