Indications of ZIF Forte

It is indicated for the treatment and prophylaxis of Iron, Folic Acid, Vitamin B Complex, Vitamin C and Zinc deficiency especially during pregnancy and lactation. It is also indicated for the geriatric patients with generalized weakness due to vitamins and minerals deficiency.

Composition

Each capsule contains- Elemental Iron 50 mg (as Carbonyl Iron) Folic Acid 0.50 mg Thiamine Mononitrate 2 mg Riboflavin 2 mg Pyridoxine Hydrochloride 1 mg Nicotinamide 10 mg, Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid) 50 mg Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate 61.80 mg

Theropeutic Class

Iron, Vitamin and Mineral Combined preparation

Pharmacology

This is a haematinic preparation with vitamins and minerals. Carbonyl Iron is more effective and safer choice of Iron supplementation as it has higher bioavailability, low toxicity and better GI tolerance. Folic acid is required to maintain normal healthy development of the neural tube and is vital for cell division from a single cell to a fully developed baby. Vitamin B Complex is required for the growth and development of unborn babies. Vitamin C plays a role in the structure of collagen in the fetal membrane. Zinc is a critical nutrient for fetal growth and development, central nervous system development and function and ensures better maternal and infant health.

Dosage and Administration of ZIF Forte

Adult: One Capsule daily before food or as directed by the physician.

Interaction of ZIF Forte

Carbonyl Iron decreases the absorption of tetracycline antibiotics, quinolone antibiotics, levodopa, levothyroxine, methyldopa and penicillamine. Folic Acid interacts with antiepileptics, so plasma concentrations of phenobarbital, phenytoin and primidone are possibly reduced.

Contraindications

It is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of its component or those with Iron overload.

Side Effects of ZIF Forte

Gastrointestinal irritations such as nausea, anorexia, vomiting, discomfort, constipation and diarrhoea may occur. Patients may complain of dark stool. Carbonyl Iron pellets incorporated into the capsules to reduce the possibility of gastrointestinal irritations. Rarely there may be allergic reactions.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Use of any drug during first trimester of pregnancy should be avoided if possible. Thus administration of Iron during the first trimester requires definite evidence of Iron deficiency. Prophylaxis of Iron deficiency where inadequate diet calls for supplementary Zinc and Folic acid is justified during the remainder of pregnancy.

Precautions and Warnings

Special care should be taken in patients with Iron overload states, such as haemochromatosis, haemolytic anaemia or red blood cell aplasia. Failure to response to the treatment requires further investigations to exclude other causes of anaemia. In patients with renal failure there may be the risk of Zinc accumulation.

Overdose Effects of ZIF Forte

Symptoms of Carbonyl Iron include decreased energy, nausea, abdominal pain, tarry stool, weak, rapid pulse, fever, coma, seizures.

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool and dry place, keep away from light and moisture. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.