iron supplements-oral (cont.)
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: chloramphenicol, penicillamine, methyldopa, levodopa, cimetidine, quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin). Avoid taking iron at the same time as antacids or tetracycline antibiotics. Wait at least two hours between taking iron and an antacid or tetracycline. Because iron-containing products can cause false results with certain tests that check for blood in the stools, tell the doctor or laboratory personnel you take iron. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include unconsciousness, paleness, weak-rapid heartbeat, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or green diarrhea/tarry stools.
NOTES: Some iron products contain vitamin C which is believed to increase iron absorption. If your particular brand of iron supplement also contains folic acid, vitamin B12 levels may be checked. There are many iron supplement products available. Some can be purchased without a prescription. Consult your doctor or pharmacist on the choice of a product best for you. This medication is not a substitute to proper diet. It is important to maintain a well balanced diet. Foods rich in iron include beans, nuts, asparagus, oatmeal, red meat, dried peaches, and pork liver.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. Keep out of the reach of children.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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