Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid
About Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid
Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid is a suggested supplement used to treat and prevent iron and folic acid deficiency, particularly in people with anaemia or an increased nutritional requirement. It is commonly suggested to support healthy red blood cell production, improve haemoglobin levels, and help prevent or treat iron deficiency anaemia, including during pregnancy when recommended by a doctor.
For the best results, you should take the supplement consistently at the same time every day. You can take this medicine with or without food, though taking it with meals can help prevent a mild upset stomach. Combining your daily dose with iron-rich foods like green leafy vegetables and avoiding tea or coffee around your dose time can significantly improve your results.
While taking this medication, you may notice mild side effects such as dark stools, constipation, or mild stomach discomfort. These symptoms are common and usually harmless as your body adjusts to the therapy. However, you must consult your doctor immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of a serious allergic reaction like a rash or breathing trouble.
Talk to your doctor before starting it if you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or frequent blood transfusions. Do not take this if you have been diagnosed with an iron overload disorder, such as hemochromatosis, where your body accumulates too much iron. Your healthcare provider will evaluate whether this supplement is safe for your digestive system and overall health.
This medication can interact with antacids and certain antibiotics by reducing how well they are absorbed, so they should be taken at different times. It is also important to limit alcohol consumption because it can irritate your stomach and interfere with nutrient absorption. Pregnant, breastfeeding, or elderly individuals should consult their doctor to ensure this supplement is safe and appropriate for their specific nutritional needs.
Uses of Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid
Medicinal Benefits
When taken consistently as directed, this supplement may provide the following physiological benefits:
- Restores daily energy levels: By boosting red blood cell production, it improves oxygen delivery throughout your body, helping to relieve chronic fatigue and weakness.
- Supports healthy fetal development: When taken during pregnancy, it aids in the normal development of the baby’s brain and spinal cord, reducing the risk of birth defects.
- Strengthens immune function: Adequate iron and vitamin levels support your body's natural defence systems, helping you recover faster from everyday physical stress.
- Improves concentration and focus: Healthy oxygen levels in the blood support optimal brain function, which helps clear mental fog and improves daily productivity.
Directions for Use
- Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid can be taken with or without food. However, if stomach upset occurs, take it with food.
- Follow your doctor's instructions on dosage and timing of Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid.
- Swallow Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid as whole with a glass of water.
- Do not break, chew, or crush it.
Storage
Side Effects of Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid
Common Side Effects (Usually mild):
- Dark or black-colored stools (this is normal and harmless)
- Constipation or mild diarrhea
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Loss of appetite
Serious Side Effects (Consult your doctor right away):
- Severe stomach pain or cramping
- Persistent vomiting or blood in the vomit
- Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing (signs of a severe allergic reaction)
- Severe dizziness or fainting
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Check the expiry date: Always check the expiration date on the package before taking a dose.
- Separate from antacids and calcium supplements: Do not take this medicine within 2 hours of taking antacids or calcium supplements, as they can reduce iron absorption.
- Expect dark stools: This medicine may turn your stools dark green or black. This is a normal effect of unabsorbed iron and is usually not a cause for concern.
- Inform your healthcare providers: Inform any doctor or dentist you visit that you are taking this supplement, as it may occasionally interfere with certain medical tests.
- Do not share your medication: Do not share this medication with others, as excess iron can be harmful, especially to people who do not have an iron deficiency.
Drug Interactions
- Antacids and Calcium Supplements: They may decrease the absorption of iron when taken together.
- Certain Antibiotics (like tetracyclines and quinolones): They can reduce the effectiveness of these antibiotics; space them at least 2 hours apart.
- Thyroid Medications (levothyroxine): This medicine can lower the absorption of thyroid hormone; take them at least 4 hours apart.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid consumption of alcohol with Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid as it may decrease the absorption of Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid.
Pregnancy
consult your doctorFerrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid is advised for pregnant women only if the doctor believes the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorIt is unknown whether Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid is excreted in human milk. Therefore, please consult a doctor if you are breastfeeding. Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid is given to breastfeeding mothers only if the doctor believes the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving
safeFerrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid usually does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Liver
cautionTake Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid with caution, especially if you have a history of liver diseases. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor as required.
Kidney
cautionTake Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid with caution, especially if you have a history of kidney diseases. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor as required.
Children
cautionFerrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid should be used in children in doses as advised by a doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat vitamin C-rich foods: Consuming citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, or tomatoes alongside your meals can significantly improve how your body absorbs iron.
- Avoid tea and coffee near dose times: The tannins in tea and caffeine in coffee can block iron absorption. Wait at least two hours before or after taking your medicine to drink these.
- Stay well-hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help manage and prevent constipation, which is a common effect of iron supplements.
- Include fibre-rich foods: Eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to keep your digestive system moving smoothly while on this treatment.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Anaemia: It is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to various body tissues. Anaemia can be temporary and treated with supplements, or long-term and requires medical procedures. It makes you feel very tired quickly due to a lack of oxygen supply to the body. It is one of the most common blood disorders.
FAQs
Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid belongs to a class of medications called haematinics; primarily used to treat anaemia (lack of blood) and iron deficiency.
Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid works by increasing red blood cells (RBC) and haemoglobin (a protein) production in the body. As a result, an adequate number of RBCs are produced in the body so that each tissue in the body gets a sufficient supply of oxygen.
You are not recommended to take Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid with phenytoin as co-administration of these two medicines may reduce the concentration of Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid in blood and increase the risk of seizures (fits). Please consult a doctor before taking Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid with phenytoin.
Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid is not recommended for haemochromatosis (excessive iron in the body) patients as it may increase the risk of adverse effects. Therefore, it is advised to inform your doctor if you have any iron overload conditions before taking Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid.
Do not take Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid if you are allergic to any of its components. You are recommended to consult your doctor if you have an allergic reaction to Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid.
Consult the doctor before taking other medicines with Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid. Let the doctor know if you are taking medications used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (penicillamine, sulfasalazine), blood cholesterol (cholestyramine), Parkinson's disease (levodopa, carbidopa), thyroid disease, cancer, malaria, and antibiotics.
Common side effects of Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid may include constipation, dry mouth, loss of appetite, bloating, and diarrhoea. Most of the side effects of Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid do not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid should be stored in a cool and dry place away from sunlight. Keep it away from children’s reach.
Yes, taking it on an empty stomach allows your body to absorb the nutrients best. However, if it causes stomach upset, you can take it with a light meal. Talk to your doctor if you experience persistent stomach pain.
This is a completely harmless and expected effect. It happens because your digestive tract does not absorb 100% of the iron, and the excess is eliminated in your stool. Talk to your doctor if you notice blood or experience severe pain.
Please consult your doctor before taking Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Iron supplements are commonly suggested during pregnancy to help prevent or treat iron-deficiency anaemia, but your doctor will determine whether Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid is appropriate and for how long based on your individual needs.
Mild constipation is a common side effect of iron intake. You can manage this by drinking plenty of water and eating fibre-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. Talk to your doctor if the constipation is severe or doesn't improve.
No. Avoid taking Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid with tea, coffee, or dairy products at the same time, as they can reduce iron absorption. Take Ferrous Calcium Citrate+folic Acid at least 2 hours before or after consuming these beverages or dairy products. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you need help planning your doses.
No, calcium can block the absorption of iron in your body. It is best to space your calcium supplements and this medicine at least two hours apart. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to help plan your supplement schedule.
An overdose of iron-containing products can be very serious, especially for children. Seek immediate medical emergency care. Talk to your doctor if you have any safety concerns.

