Ferrous fumarate is mainly used in the medical field for treating iron-deficiency anemia. With high bioavailability and good stability, it is widely applied in clinical practice. Details are as follows:
Mechanism of action: Iron is a key component of hemoglobin and myoglobin. Hemoglobin is the main oxygen carrier in red blood cells, while myoglobin stores oxygen in muscle cells. Ferrous fumarate supplements iron, which is absorbed as ferrous ions in the duodenum and proximal jejunum. It then binds to transferrin and enters the bloodstream to synthesize hemoglobin, thereby alleviating symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia.
Indicated populations: It is suitable for various groups, including pregnant and lactating women (to improve anemia and reduce the incidence of low-birth-weight infants and premature babies); individuals with menorrhagia or post-gynecological surgery blood loss; anemia patients and hemorrhoid sufferers; patients with anemia caused by reduced iron absorption (such as those with chronic enteritis or peptic ulcers); individuals with anemia before and after perioperative periods; and children and adolescents in the growth and development stage (to improve anemia symptoms like picky eating and pale complexion in children).
Dosage forms and administration: Ferrous fumarate is available in multiple dosage forms, such as tablets, capsules, granules, and chewable tablets. For adults, the preventive dose is 0.2g daily; for therapeutic use, the dose is 0.2g-0.4g per time, 0.6g-1.2g daily. Pediatric doses need adjustment based on age: for example, under 1 year old, 35mg per time, 3 times a day; 1-5 years old, 70mg per time, 3 times a day, etc. It is generally recommended to take it immediately after meals to reduce gastrointestinal irritation, though this may slightly affect drug absorption.
Advantages: As an organic iron, ferrous fumarate has a high content of organic ferrous ions, which are easily absorbed by the human body and can rapidly increase heme levels. It causes less gastrointestinal irritation, making it suitable for long-term use. Additionally, it has strong stability, is not easily oxidized, can maintain efficacy for a long time, and is well compatible with various nutrients and antibiotics, exerting synergistic effects.
Adverse reactions and precautions: Common adverse reactions include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and constipation. It may also reduce intestinal peristalsis, causing constipation and black stools. Precautions: It is contraindicated in patients with hemochromatosis, other anemias without iron deficiency (e.g., thalassemia), and those with severe liver or kidney dysfunction. During treatment, regular monitoring of hemoglobin, reticulocyte count, serum ferritin, and serum iron is necessary to observe therapeutic responses.
Note: The last sentence in the original text is repeated in the Chinese version. The English translation retains the complete meaning as: "Meanwhile, it should not be used concomitantly with antacids, tannin-containing drugs, or beverages to avoid affecting absorption."
