Iron (Ferrous Ascorbate) + Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) is a haematinic combination used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anaemia and folate deficiency. It supports healthy red blood cell formation, improves haemoglobin levels, and helps prevent complications associated with low iron and folate levels. This combination is especially beneficial during pregnancy, lactation, adolescence, and periods of increased nutritional demand. Ferrous ascorbate provides highly bioavailable iron, while folic acid supports DNA synthesis and red blood cell maturation.

Iron and folic acid are essential nutrients required for the production of healthy red blood cells and the maintenance of adequate oxygen transport throughout the body. Deficiency of either nutrient can lead to anaemia, a condition characterised by low haemoglobin levels and reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

Iron (Ferrous Ascorbate) is a well-absorbed form of iron that combines elemental iron with ascorbic acid (vitamin C). This formulation significantly enhances iron absorption in the gastrointestinal tract and reduces common gastrointestinal side effects associated with traditional iron salts. Iron is a key component of haemoglobin, myoglobin, and various enzymes involved in cellular respiration and energy metabolism.

Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis, cell division, and the formation of red blood cells. Folic acid deficiency leads to megaloblastic anaemia, a condition in which red blood cells are abnormally large and inefficient at carrying oxygen. Adequate folate intake is especially important during pregnancy, as deficiency increases the risk of neural tube defects in the developing fetus.

Iron (Ferrous Ascorbate) + Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) is commonly prescribed for individuals with nutritional deficiencies, chronic blood loss, increased physiological demands, or malabsorption disorders. It is also routinely recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding to support maternal health and fetal development.

When taken consistently as prescribed, this combination helps restore normal haemoglobin levels, reduces symptoms such as fatigue and weakness, improves physical stamina, and supports overall well-being. Regular medical monitoring may be advised in long-term use to ensure optimal response and prevent excessive iron accumulation.

Iron (Ferrous Ascorbate) + Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) is indicated for:

• Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anaemia: Used to correct low haemoglobin levels caused by inadequate iron intake, poor absorption, or chronic blood loss.
• Prevention of Iron and Folate Deficiency: Prescribed to prevent nutritional deficiencies in individuals with increased physiological demands.
• Anaemia During Pregnancy and Lactation: Supports increased iron and folate requirements, helping maintain maternal health and supporting healthy fetal development.
• Nutritional Anaemia: Beneficial in individuals with poor dietary intake or malnutrition.
• Anaemia Due to Chronic Blood Loss: Helps restore iron stores in conditions such as heavy menstrual bleeding or gastrointestinal blood loss.

1. Improves Haemoglobin Levels: Iron is essential for haemoglobin synthesis. This combination effectively raises haemoglobin levels, improving oxygen delivery to tissues.

2. Enhances Red Blood Cell Production: Folic acid supports the formation and maturation of red blood cells, preventing abnormal cell development.

3. Highly Absorbable Iron Form: Ferrous ascorbate provides superior bioavailability compared to many other iron salts, ensuring better absorption and utilisation.

4. Reduces Symptoms of Anaemia: Regular use helps relieve fatigue, weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath, and paleness caused by anaemia.

5. Essential During Pregnancy: Supports increased blood volume in the mother and reduces the risk of anaemia-related complications in pregnancy.

6. Supports Fetal Development: Adequate folic acid intake reduces the risk of neural tube defects and supports normal growth of the fetus.

7. Better Gastrointestinal Tolerance: Ferrous ascorbate is generally associated with fewer stomach-related side effects compared to conventional iron supplements.

8. Supports Overall Energy Levels: By improving oxygen transport and cellular metabolism, this medicine helps restore physical energy and mental alertness.

When taken as directed, Iron (Ferrous Ascorbate) + Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) is generally safe and well tolerated. Most side effects, if they occur, are mild, temporary, and related to the gastrointestinal system.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Dark-coloured stools
• Metallic taste

Less Common Side Effects

• Vomiting
• Heartburn
• Headache

Serious Side Effects (Rare)

• Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis): Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or sudden dizziness.
• Severe Gastrointestinal Irritation: Persistent vomiting, severe stomach pain, or blood in stools.
• Signs of Iron Overload or Toxicity (Overdose Risk): Severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness, confusion, or fainting, especially if taken in excess.

Seek medical advice if side effects are severe or persistent.

• Dosage: The usual dose is one tablet once daily, or as prescribed by your doctor. The dose and duration depend on the severity of iron and folate deficiency, age, pregnancy status, and response to treatment.

• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as this may affect absorption and increase the risk of stomach irritation. It may be taken after meals to minimise gastrointestinal discomfort.

• Consistency: Take the medicine exactly as directed and continue for the full prescribed duration, even if you start feeling better. Stopping treatment too early may result in recurrence of anaemia and low haemoglobin levels.

Iron (Ferrous Ascorbate) + Folic Acid works by supplying two essential nutrients required for the production of healthy red blood cells and normal haemoglobin synthesis. Its action is systemic, supporting blood formation and oxygen transport throughout the body.

• Iron Absorption and Utilisation: Ferrous ascorbate provides elemental iron in a highly bioavailable form. The presence of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) keeps iron in its reduced state, improving absorption from the small intestine. Once absorbed, iron is incorporated into haemoglobin within red blood cells, enabling efficient oxygen transport to tissues and organs.
• Role in Haemoglobin and Enzyme Function: Iron is a critical component of haemoglobin and myoglobin and also acts as a cofactor for several enzymes involved in energy metabolism and cellular respiration. Adequate iron levels help restore oxygen-carrying capacity and reduce symptoms of anaemia.
• Folic Acid and Red Blood Cell Formation: Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) is converted in the body to its active form, which is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division. This process is particularly important in the bone marrow, where red blood cells are produced. Adequate folate ensures proper maturation of red blood cells and prevents megaloblastic anaemia.
• Synergistic Action: Together, iron and folic acid correct nutritional deficiencies, support effective erythropoiesis (red blood cell production), improve haemoglobin levels, and restore normal blood parameters, leading to improved energy levels and overall wellbeing.

• Take at the same time each day for best results.
• Expect dark stools; this is normal.
• Do not take with tea or coffee.
• Continue therapy for the full prescribed duration.
• Regular blood tests may be advised to monitor haemoglobin levels.

• Store below 25°C in a dry place.
• Protect from moisture and light.
• Keep out of reach of children.

• Avoid taking with tea, coffee, or milk as they reduce iron absorption.
• Vitamin C-rich foods enhance iron absorption.

• Antacids (Aluminium, Magnesium, or Calcium-containing): May reduce iron absorption. A time gap of at least 2 hours is recommended.
• Calcium Supplements and Dairy Products: Can interfere with iron absorption when taken together.
• Tetracycline and Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics: Iron reduces the absorption and effectiveness of these antibiotics; separate dosing by at least 2-4 hours.
• Levothyroxine: Iron can reduce thyroid hormone absorption; doses should be taken several hours apart.
• Antiepileptic Medicines (e.g., Phenytoin): Folic acid may reduce blood levels of certain antiepileptics, potentially affecting seizure control.
• Methotrexate or Other Folate Antagonists: Folic acid supplementation may interfere with their therapeutic action unless specifically advised by a doctor.

• Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Haemochromatosis, Hemosiderosis): Supplementation can lead to excessive iron accumulation and organ damage.
• Chronic Kidney Disease: Use with caution, as iron handling may be altered and excess iron can accumulate. Medical supervision is advised.
• Liver Disease: Use cautiously in patients with hepatic impairment, as excess iron may worsen liver injury.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease or Inflammatory Gastrointestinal Conditions: May aggravate gastric irritation and worsen symptoms.
• Megaloblastic Anaemia Not Due to Folate Deficiency: Folic acid may mask vitamin B12 deficiency, delaying correct diagnosis and treatment.

The usual dose is one tablet daily, unless otherwise advised by your doctor. Duration depends on severity of deficiency.

Excessive iron intake can be dangerous, especially in children. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness. Seek immediate medical attention in case of overdose.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose.