• Basic Info
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• Clinical Info

What is this medicine?

POLYSACCHARIDE-IRON COMPLEX (pol ee SAK uh rahyd - ahy ern KOM pleks) is an iron supplement. This medicine is used to treat anemia caused by low iron levels.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• hemolytic anemia
• iron overload (hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis)
• liver disease
• stomach or bowel disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to iron, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. It is best to take iron on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food. If this medicine causes stomach upset, you may take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• deferoxamine
• dimercaprol
• iron dextran
• other iron supplements
• sodium ferric gluconate complex

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• antacids
• certain antibiotics
• levodopa
• medicines for osteoporosis like alendronate, etidronate, risedronate and tiludronate
• medicines for stomach problems like cimetidine, famotidine, omeprazole, lansoprazole
• methyldopa
• mycophenolate
• penicillamine
• thyroid hormones
• zinc

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

You should only use this medicine under the supervision of your health care professional. If you are told by your health care provider that you need iron supplements, you should visit your health care professional for regular blood checks. Do not use this medicine longer than prescribed, and do not take a higher dose than recommended. Long-term use may cause excess iron to build-up in the body.

This medicine can cause temporary staining of the teeth. Mix in water and drink through a straw to prevent staining of the teeth. Stains can be reduced or removed by brushing the teeth with baking soda.

Do not take this medicine with dairy products or antacids. If you need to take an antacid, take it 2 hours after a dose of iron.

Last Updated: July 20, 2009