Ferrous%25252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252520ascorbate

# Ferrous Ascorbate ## Overview Ferrous ascorbate is an oral iron supplement that combines ferrous iron with ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid enhances iron absorption. ## Primary Indications Treatment and prevention of iron deficiency anemia. ## Adult Dosing * **Treatment of iron deficiency anemia:** * Typically 100-200 mg of elemental iron daily, divided into 1-2 doses. * Ferrous ascorbate formulations vary in elemental iron content; consult the specific product labeling. For example, a ferrous ascorbate 60 mg tablet often contains 100 mg of ferrous ascorbate, providing 10 mg of elemental iron. * Duration of treatment is typically 3-6 months after normalization of hemoglobin to replenish iron stores. * **Prevention of iron deficiency anemia:** * Dosing varies based on individual risk factors and local guidelines. Often 30-60 mg of elemental iron daily. ## Pediatric Dosing * **Treatment of iron deficiency anemia:** * Recommended dose is 3-6 mg/kg/day of elemental iron, given in 1-3 divided doses. * Maximum dose not definitively established but generally not to exceed 200 mg of elemental iron per day in children. * **Prevention of iron deficiency anemia:** * Recommended dose is 1 mg/kg/day of elemental iron, up to a maximum of 15 mg/day. ## Dose Adjustments No dose adjustments are typically required for hepatic or renal impairment, but caution and monitoring are advised in patients with severe impairment. ## Contraindications * Known hypersensitivity to ferrous ascorbate or its components. * Hemochromatosis. * Hemolytic anemia. * Other conditions of iron overload. ## Adverse Effects Common: Constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark stools, metallic taste. Less common: Gastritis, allergic reactions. ## Key Drug Interactions * **Tetracyclines and Doxycycline:** Concurrent administration can decrease absorption of both drugs. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. * **Levothyroxine:** Concurrent administration can decrease absorption of levothyroxine. Separate administration by at least 4 hours. * **Antacids and calcium supplements:** Can decrease iron absorption. Separate administration. * **Prolonged use of NSAIDs:** May exacerbate gastrointestinal adverse effects. * **Quinolone antibiotics:** Iron can reduce absorption of quinolones. Separate administration by at least 2 hours. ## Monitoring * Hemoglobin and hematocrit. * Ferritin levels (to assess iron stores). * Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia. * Gastrointestinal tolerance. ## Clinical Pearls * Administer ferrous ascorbate on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. If gastrointestinal upset occurs, it can be taken with food, but absorption may be reduced. * Taking iron with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) enhances absorption. * Advise patients about potential side effects, particularly gastrointestinal upset and dark stools. * Store iron supplements out of reach of children due to the risk of iron poisoning. *** **Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals and does not replace the need to consult the official prescribing information for the specific product being used and relevant clinical guidelines. Always verify the most current drug information before making clinical decisions.