Ferrous sulfate or FeSO4 is used to fortify foods and treat iron-deficiency anemia.

Common brand names are Ameciron, Appebon, Brisofer, Drexabion, Femina, Feosol, Ferglobin, Ferlin, Ferosal, Forlavit, Hemiron, Iberet, Sorbifer and Terraferron. Ferrous sulfate is classified as an Enzymatic mineral and Iron preparation.

Indications for Ferrous Sulfate

The prevention or treatment of iron deficiency anemia due to inadequate diet, malabsorption pregnancy, and blood loss.

Routes and Dosage of Ferrous Sulfate

Deficiency PO: ADULTS, ELDERLY: 2-3 mg/kg/day or 50-100mg elemental iron 2 time/day up to 100mg 4 time/day. CHILDREN: 3 mg/kg/day elemental iron in 1-3 divided doses. Prophylaxis PO: ADULTS, ELDERLY: 60-100 mg elemental iron/day. CHILDREN: 1-2 mg/kg/day elemental iron. Maximum: 15 mg elemental iron/day.

Action of Ferrous Sulfate

Ferrous Sulfate is an essential component in the formation of hemoglobin, myoglobin and enzymes. It is necessary for effective erythropoiesis and transport or utilization of oxygen.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions of Ferrous Sulfate

Side Effects of Ferrous Sulfate o Mild, transient nausea o o o o Heartburn Anorexia Constipation Diarrhea

Adverse Reactions of Ferrous Sulfate o Large doses may aggravate peptic ulcer, regional enteritis, and ulcerative colitis. o Severe Iron Poisoning: Vomiting Severe abdominal pain Diarrhea Dehydration

Hyperventilation Pallor or cyanosis Cardiovascular collapse

Nursing Considerations for Clients Taking Ferrous Sulfate

o o o o o o o o o Store all forms at room temperature. Give between meals with water but may give with meals if gastrointestinal discomfort occurs. Transient staining of mucous membranes and teeth will occur with liquid iron preparation. To avoid, place liquid on the back of the tongue with dropper or use straw. Avoid simultaneous administration of antacids or tetracycline. Do not crush sustained-release preparations. Eggs and milk inhibit absorption. Monitor serum iron, total iron-binding capacity, reticulocyte count, hemoglobin, and ferritin. Monitor daily pattern of bowel activity and stool consistency. Assess for clinical improvement, record of relief of symptoms (fatigue, irritability, pallor, paresthesia, and headache).

Patient Teachings for Clients Taking Ferrous Sulfate

o o o Expect stools to darken in color. If gastrointestinal discomfort occurs, take after meals or with food. Do not take within 2 hours of antacids because it rpevents absorption.