Feronia Xt Syr

Feronia XT Suspension is an oral iron and folic acid supplement manufactured by Zuventus Healthcare Ltd., designed to address iron and folate deficiencies.

Name

• Brand Name: FERONIA XT SYR (Suspension)
• Common Name: Ferrous Ascorbate and Folic Acid Oral Suspension

Composition

Feronia XT Suspension contains:

• Ferrous Ascorbate: A readily absorbable form of iron, typically 30 mg elemental iron per 5 ml.
• Folic Acid: A B vitamin essential for cell division and growth.

Uses

Feronia XT Suspension is primarily used to prevent and treat various forms of anemia, including:

• Iron deficiency anemia.
• Nutritional deficiency anemia.
• Anemia due to folate deficiency. It is also beneficial during pregnancy and lactation to meet increased iron and folic acid demands, supporting red blood cell production and overall well-being.

Dosage and Administration

• Typical Guidance: Always take as directed by a healthcare professional. For adults and the elderly, the usual dose to prevent iron deficiency anemia is one spoonful (5ml) two to three times a day. Some sources suggest 5ml once a day.
• Administration: Shake the bottle well before use. It may be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort, but avoid consuming with tea, eggs, or milk as these can reduce iron absorption. Do not exceed the prescribed daily dose.
• Children and Infants: Dosage should be determined by a pediatrician based on age, weight, and specific nutritional requirements.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, epigastric pain, constipation, or diarrhea.
• Darkening or black discoloration of stools, which is normal with iron preparations.
• Long-term use may increase the risk of tooth decay and blackish discoloration of teeth.
• Rarely, serious allergic reactions can occur.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Do not take if allergic to Ferrous ascorbate or other iron compounds. Exercise caution or avoid in conditions like peptic ulcer, regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis, or other iron overload disorders.
• Drug Interactions: Iron absorption may be reduced by antacids, certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline, chloramphenicol), calcium salts, magnesium salts, cholestyramine, tea, eggs, and milk. Consult your doctor if taking medicines for Parkinson's disease (e.g., levodopa), rheumatoid arthritis (penicillamine), or during organ transplants (mycophenolate). Folic acid can mask symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Specific Populations: Generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding if clinically indicated, but always consult a doctor. Dosage for children and the elderly should be medically supervised.
• Warnings: Contains iron, and an overdose can be fatal, especially in young children. Keep out of their sight and reach.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place.
• Keep the bottle in the outer carton to protect from light.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date.

Feronia XT Syrup is an iron and folic acid supplement primarily used to prevent and treat various forms of anemia. Below are some frequently asked questions about this medication.

What is Feronia XT Syrup used for?

Feronia XT Syrup is primarily used for the prophylaxis and treatment of iron deficiency anemia and anemia due to folate deficiency. It helps support red blood cell production and is particularly beneficial during pregnancy to prevent iron deficiency and neural tube defects.

How does Feronia XT Syrup work?

Feronia XT Syrup contains Ferrous Ascorbate and Folic Acid. Ferrous Ascorbate is a form of iron that is readily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for the normal development of red blood cells and is a key component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. The ascorbic acid component in Ferrous Ascorbate enhances iron absorption. Folic acid, a B vitamin, is essential for cell division, growth, and the development of blood cells, and plays a vital role in the proper development of the brain and spinal cord in a fetus.

What is the usual dosage for Feronia XT Syrup?

The dosage of Feronia XT Syrup varies depending on age and medical condition.

• Adults and Elderly: For preventing iron deficiency anemia, the usual dose is one 5ml spoonful two to three times a day.
• Children and Infants: For full-term infants and children, the dosage is typically 3 to 6 mg of elemental iron per kilogram per day, given in 2 to 3 divided doses, not exceeding 180 mg elemental iron daily. For premature infants, 0.5 ml per day (5mg elemental iron) may be recommended, especially for those of low birth weight who are solely breastfed. Dosages for children should always be determined by a pediatrician.

It is generally recommended to take Feronia XT Syrup as directed by your doctor, usually with or after a meal to minimize stomach upset. The treatment duration typically does not exceed six months, stopping three months after the anemia has been corrected.

What are the possible side effects of Feronia XT Syrup?

Common side effects include gastrointestinal irritation such as nausea, epigastric pain (pain in the upper stomach), constipation, or diarrhea. Your stools may also appear darker in color, which is a normal occurrence with iron preparations. Black discoloration of the teeth and allergic reactions (due to metabisulphite) may also occur. Long-term use might increase the risk of dental caries. If you experience persistent or worsening side effects, consult your doctor.

Is Feronia XT Syrup safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Yes, Feronia XT Syrup is generally considered safe and can be used during pregnancy if clinically indicated. Adequate folic acid intake is crucial during pregnancy to help prevent birth defects. Similarly, it is considered safe for use while breastfeeding, with no adverse effects reported in breastfed infants of treated mothers.

Can Feronia XT Syrup be taken with other medications?

Feronia XT Syrup can interact with certain medications and foods. Iron can reduce the absorption of various drugs, including certain antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, tetracycline), bisphosphonates, levodopa, levothyroxine, and zinc. It is advisable to take these medications at least 2 hours apart from Feronia XT Syrup. Antacids and calcium supplements can also reduce iron absorption, so a minimum gap of two hours should be maintained. Additionally, avoid taking the syrup with tea, coffee, eggs, or milk, as these can inhibit iron absorption. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using Feronia XT Syrup?

It is crucial to keep Feronia XT Syrup out of the reach and sight of children, as an overdose of iron can be fatal. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after four weeks of use. Exercise caution if you have underlying conditions such as peptic ulcer, regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, diabetes, hypertension, or kidney/liver problems. This medicine should not be taken if you have an allergy to its ingredients, iron overload conditions (like haemosiderosis or haemochromatosis), or certain other types of anemia not caused by iron deficiency. Due to its sugar content and potential for teeth discoloration, maintaining good dental hygiene is important. Always shake the bottle well before use.

What happens if a dose of Feronia XT Syrup is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

How should Feronia XT Syrup be stored?

Feronia XT Syrup should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct heat and sunlight, ideally at room temperature (20-25°C). Keep the bottle in its outer carton to protect it from light. Always keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the syrup after its expiry date.