Indications of Hemofix FZ

Hemofix FZ is indicated on prophylaxis of iron deficiency especially when inadequate diet calls for supplementary zinc and iron during pregnancy and anemia. Theropeutic Class

Iron, Vitamin and Mineral Combined preparation.

Pharmacology

Hemofix FZ when administered is converted to ferric form and immediately is reduced to the ferrous form into the stomach.

This reduced ferrous form is then transferred to the duodenum where it is highly absorbed. Ferrous Ascorbate has the advantage of providing both ferrous ion and ascorbate in the same compound.

There is no dissociation on entering GI Tract due to the stable chelate of iron with ascorbate.

Folic Acid itself is biochemically inactive, is converted to tetrahydrofolic acid and methyltetrahydrofolate by dihydrofolate reductase in liver.

These folic acid congeners are transported across cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis where they are needed to maintain numerous body functions.

Folic acid enhances chemical reactions that contribute to the production of red blood cells, the manufacture of DNA needed for cell replication and the metabolism of amino acids (compounds necessary for the manufacture of proteins).

Zinc is essential to numerous physiological processes, including the function of many enzymes in the body.

Deficiency may lead to poor night vision, slow healing of wounds, poor sexual development and function in males,

poor appetite (perhaps owing to a decrease in the sense of taste and smell), a reduced ability to ward off infections, diarrhea, dermatitis and in children, retarded growth.

Dosage and Administration of Hemofix FZ

Adult and Elderly: One tablet a day before or after meal (food independent absorption) or as directed by the physician.

In more severe cases, two tablets a day may be required as prescribed by the physician. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Dosage of Hemofix FZ

Adult and Elderly: One tablet a day before or after meal (food independent absorption) or as directed by the physician.

In more severe cases, two tablets a day may be required as prescribed by the physician. Pediatric patients: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Interaction of Hemofix FZ

Iron chelates with tetracycline. Since oral iron products interfere with absorption of oral tetracycline antibiotics, Hemofix FZ should not be taken within two hours of each other.

Occasional gastrointestinal discomfort may be minimized by taking with meals. Absorption of iron may be impaired by concurrent administrations of penicillamine and antacid.

In patients with renal failure, a risk of zinc accumulation may exist.

Contraindications

Hemofix FZ is contraindicated in patients with haemolytic anaemia and in conditions with increased hypersensitivity to any of its components and increased body iron content.

Side Effects of Hemofix FZ

Side effects of Hemofix FZ supplementation are mild and transient.

These include epigastric pain, nausea, constipation, vomiting, diarrhoea, heart burn, etc. Allergic sensitization has been reported following both oral and parenteral administration of folic acid.

Pregnancy and Lactation

If pregnant, or planning to become pregnant or are currently breast-feeding please contact your physician, before taking or continuing the drug.

Administration in first trimester of pregnancy should be avoided unless definite evidence of iron deficiency is observed.

Prophylaxis of iron deficiency is justified during the remainder of pregnancy specifically when zinc supplementation is required.

Precautions and Warnings

Care should be taken in patients who may develop iron overload, such as those with haemochromatosis, haemolytic anemia or red cell aplasia.

Failure to respond to treatment may indicate other causes of anemia and should be further investigated.

Overdose Effects of Hemofix FZ

The clinical course of acute iron overdosage can be variable.

Initial symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, tarry stools, melena, hematemesis, hypotension, tachycardia, metabolic acidosis, hyperglycemia, dehydration, drowsiness, pallor, cyanosis, lassitude, seizures, shock and coma.

Storage Conditions

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Drug Classes

Iron, Vitamin and Mineral Combined preparation Mode Of Action

Ferrous Ascorbate, Folic Acid and Zinc is a combination of three nutritional supplements. Hemofix FZ is a combination of iron and vitamin C. Iron replenishes the iron stores in your body and corrects iron deficiency anemia.

Vitamin C (ascorbate) is added to enhance the absorption of iron in the body.

Folic Acid is a form of vitamin B. It plays a vital role in the formation of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.

It is also essential in pregnancy due to its role in the development of the unborn baby's brain and spinal cord.

Zinc is a micromineral that provides nutrition.

Pregnancy

If pregnant, or planning to become pregnant or are currently breast-feeding please contact your physician, before taking or continuing the drug.

Administration in first trimester of pregnancy should be avoided unless definite evidence of iron deficiency is observed.

Prophylaxis of iron deficiency is justified during the remainder of pregnancy specifically when zinc supplementation is required.