Galfer Ferrous Fumarate Syrup | 300ml

Description

Who is it Suitable For?

• Adults and adolescents (12 years and older) requiring iron supplementation.
• Pregnant women, where iron needs are increased.
• Patients with diagnosed iron deficiency anaemia or at risk of low iron levels.
• Not recommended for children under 12 years without medical supervision.

Ingredients / Active Ingredients

• Ferrous Fumarate 140mg per 5ml syrup (equivalent to 45mg elemental iron).
• Other ingredients: liquid glucose, ethanol, glycerol, sodium cyclamate, saccharin sodium, caramel (E150), menthol, water, and flavouring agents.

How to Use / Dosage Instructions

Dosage by age group:

• Adults, the elderly, and children 12 years and over: One 5ml spoonful 2–3 times daily, or as directed by a doctor.
• Pregnant women: Dose as above, usually advised under medical guidance.

How to administer:

• For oral use only.
• Measure carefully with a medicine spoon or oral syringe.
• May be taken with or after food to reduce stomach irritation.

Duration of use:

• Continue treatment until iron levels are corrected, usually at least 3 months, or as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Possible Side Effects

Like all medicines, side effects may occur.
Common: Stomach upset, constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, or dark stools.
Rare: Skin rash, itching, or severe allergic reactions.
If you experience difficulty breathing, swelling, or severe pain, seek immediate medical help.

Warnings and Precautions

• Do not use if you are allergic to ferrous fumarate or any other ingredients.
• Avoid if you have haemochromatosis, haemolytic anaemia, or repeated blood transfusions.
• Use with caution in patients with peptic ulcer disease, bowel strictures, or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Safe when taken at recommended doses. Follow your doctor’s advice.
• Driving and operating machinery: No known effects.

Interactions with Other Medicines

• Iron may reduce absorption of some antibiotics (e.g. tetracyclines, quinolones) and medicines for thyroid (levothyroxine).
• Absorption may be reduced by antacids, tea, coffee, eggs, or milk if taken together.
• Take at least 2 hours apart from interacting medicines.

When to Consult a Pharmacist or Doctor

Seek advice if:

• Symptoms of anaemia persist or worsen despite treatment.
• You experience severe abdominal pain, black/tarry stools, or vomiting blood.
• Children accidentally ingest iron syrup – this is a medical emergency.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding and unsure about dosage.

Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (below 25°C).
• Keep tightly closed and in the original packaging.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children – iron overdose in children is dangerous.

FAQs

1. How long does it take for Galfer Syrup to work?
   It usually takes a few weeks to start improving symptoms, but full treatment may last several months.
2. Can I take it with food?
   Yes, although absorption is best on an empty stomach, it may be taken with food to reduce stomach upset.
3. Will Galfer Syrup affect the colour of my stools?
   Yes, stools may appear darker – this is harmless.
4. Can children under 12 take Galfer Syrup?
   Not unless prescribed by a doctor, due to the risk of iron overdose.
5. What should I do if I miss a dose?
   Take it as soon as you remember, but do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.