Iron Flashcards
(12 cards)
Which ferrous salts are best absorbed as iron supplements?
Ferrous fumarate, ferrous sulphate, and ferrous gluconate.
What are the characteristics of ferrous citrate?
Well absorbed and generally well tolerated.
What is a possible downside of ferrous fumarate supplementation?
May inhibit the absorption of vitamin E.
What are common side effects of ferrous sulphate?
Nausea, constipation, and possible interference with vitamin E absorption.
How does ferrous bisglycinate differ from ferrous sulphate?
It is a chelated iron with high bioavailability and fewer adverse effects.
What caution is important when supplementing iron?
Iron overdose is toxic, especially in children, and can be fatal.
Why should iron supplementation be carefully monitored?
Because of risks of pro-oxidant effects, free radical damage, and bacterial overgrowth.
Which blood tests should be checked before iron supplementation?
Serum ferritin and transferrin levels.
What genetic condition requires caution with iron supplementation?
Haemochromatosis (iron overload disorder).
Name some drugs that interact with iron supplements.
Thyroxine, levodopa, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, penicillamine.
How can iron supplement side effects like nausea and gastric pain be reduced?
Taking iron supplements with food.
What are symptoms or risks of iron toxicity?
Organ damage and death; more common in haemosiderosis, haemochromatosis, thalassaemia, and sideroblastic anaemias.
