Iron polymaltose - oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Iron polymaltose is used to prevent or treat iron deficiency anaemia (a blood disorder in which the body does not produce enough red blood cells due to lack of iron).

This medicine may also be used to prevent iron deficiency during pregnancy.

Iron polymaltose may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Iron polymaltose exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Take it together with food or immediately after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Iron polymaltose is available as a conventional tablet, chewable tablet, oral syrup or drops.

If you are taking the conventional tablet, swallow it whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or divide the tablet.

If you are taking the chewable tablet, chew it thoroughly then swallow. Taking additional fluids after chewing is not necessary.

If you are taking an oral syrup, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring cup provided to measure your dose. If needed, the oral syrup can be mixed with fruit and vegetable juices.

If you are taking the oral drops, use the dropper provided to measure the prescribed dose. The oral drops can be mixed with fruit and vegetable juices.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Do not take Iron polymaltose if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or other iron medications.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • anaemia that is not caused by low level of iron e.g. haemolytic anaemia (type of anaemia where red blood cells are prematurely destroyed), megaloblastic anaemia (type of anaemia characterised by large red blood cells)
  • iron overload (too much iron in the blood)
  • problems in the way your body uses iron
as Iron polymaltose may not be suitable for you.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • other diseases of the blood
  • infection
  • tumour
  • stomach ulcer
  • inflammation of the colon
  • kidney disease
  • liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
  • You may need to have routine blood tests (e.g. haemoglobin, blood iron levels) while you are being treated with Iron polymaltose. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
  • Regular monitoring for signs and symptoms of allergic reactions may also be needed.
What side effects could I experience?
Iron polymaltose may cause any of the following side effects: headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, stomach pain, indigestion, fever, chills, sweating, skin and tooth discolouration.

Your stool may look slightly dark or black in colour. This is normal while you are being treated with this medicine.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop taking Iron polymaltose and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are being treated with injectable iron preparations.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light.

Keep the chewable tablets in their original container.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on iron polymaltose - oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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