Glucofer Tablets Haematenic Composition : Each tablet contains : Ferrous Gluconate …………………………..…………………………… 0.3 gm . ( equivalent to 35 mg elemental iron ) Properties : Glucofer contains ferrous gluconate which has been successfully used in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia due to its high content of metallic iron as it contains 12 % of elemental iron . Glucofer is well tolerated as iron in the form of ferrous gluconate is slowly liberated in the bowel so , it has lower side effects . Indications & usage : Glucofer is indicated in the prophylaxis and treatment of all types of iron deficiency anemia especially in the following cases : For growing children . In pregnancy and lactation . In convalescence and debilitated conditions , in ankylostoma anaemia etc . In menorrhagia . After subtotal or total gastroctomy as prophylactic therapy . Contra-indications: Iron preparations are contraindicated in patients with anaemias not produced by iron deficiency . Side effects : As all oral iron preparations , gastrointestinal side effects ( gastrointestinal irritation , nausea and epigastric pain ) may occur . These side effects are dose related and can be reduced by taking drug after food or reducing the dose . Altered bowel habit ( constipation or diarrhea ) may occur but the relationship with dose is less clear . Oral iron preparations may cause constipation especially in older patients . Stool may appear darker in color . Drug interactions : Tetracycline , zinc may reduce absorption of oral iron and vice versa . Oral iron may reduce absorption of levodopa , bisphosphonate , and some antibacterial drugs (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, norfloxacin, and ofloxacin ) . Antacids containing magnesium may reduce absorption of oral iron Oral iron may reduce the hypotensive effect of methyldopa . Warnings & precautions : Caution is required in patients with inflammatory bowel disease as oral iron preparations may exacerbate diarrhea . Care is also needed in patients with intestinal strictures and diverticula . Dosage &administration : For children ( 6 -12 years ) : 1-3 tablets daily in divided doses after meals . For adults : 1-2 tablets 3 times daily after meals . Packing : Box of 60 tablets ( in 6 strips of 10 tablets each ) . Storage : Store at a temperature not exceeding 30 oc ,and R.H below 70 % . |