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iron/vitamin c/vitamin b12/intrinsic factor - oral, Contrin, Foltrin, Trinsicon

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GENERIC NAME: IRON/VITAMIN C/VITAMIN B12/INTRINSIC FACTOR - ORAL

BRAND NAME(S): Contrin, Foltrin, Trinsicon

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children younger than 6 years. Keep this product out of reach of children. If overdose does occur, seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center.

USES: This medication is a multivitamin product used to treat or prevent low blood levels of iron (e.g., for anemia or during pregnancy). Iron is an important mineral the body needs to produce red blood cells and keep you in good health. Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron from the stomach. Vitamin B12 is important for growth, cell production, and nerve function. Intrinsic factor is identical to a substance that is made naturally in the stomach. It improves the absorption of vitamin B12.

HOW TO USE: Swallow this medication whole with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters), usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. If you are taking the long-acting product, do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects.This medication is best taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. If stomach upset occurs, you may take this medication with food. Avoid taking antacids, dairy products, tea, or coffee within 2 hours before or after this medication because they will decrease its effectiveness. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication.Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, flushing, diarrhea, or upset stomach may occur. These effects are usually temporary and may disappear as your body adjusts to this medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Iron may cause your stools to turn black, which is not harmful.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.