What are Galfer 305mg Capsules?
Galfer 305mg capsules can help to treat and prevent iron deficiency anaemia. They contain the active ingredient ferrous fumarate which is a form of iron that can be found in food and helps to maintain the normal development of red blood cells. Each capsule contains 305mg of the active ingredient and each pack contains 100 capsules. This product should be used under medical supervision. Speak to a Chemist4U pharmacist to find out if this product is suitable for you.
What is Iron Deficiency Anaemia?
Iron Deficiency Anaemia occurs when the body is not receiving enough iron which can cause a reduction of red blood cells. The body uses iron to create red blood cells which help to store and carry oxygen in the blood. Having fewer red blood cells than normal can result in your organs and tissues not receiving sufficient amounts of oxygen. Iron deficiency anaemia symptoms include:
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Shortness of breath
- Noticeable heartbeats
- A pale complexion
Causes of iron deficiency anaemia?
A variety of factors can lead to a lack of iron in the body. People who menstruate may experience an iron deficiency due to heavy periods and pregnancy. The most common cause of iron deficiency in people who do not menstruate is bleeding in the stomach and intestines. This can be as a result of a stomach ulcer, stomach cancer, bowel cancer or by taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. It is rare for iron deficiency anaemia to be a result of a lack of iron in the diet.
How can Galfer help to treat and prevent iron deficiency anaemia?
Each tablet contains a type of iron called ferrous fumarate. This form of iron is commonly found in foods and is important for the development of red blood cells. It works by preventing low levels of iron and replacing iron in the blood.
How to use this product
Take this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as instructed by your doctor. Take this medicine before meals on an empty stomach if possible. If the capsules upset your stomach, take them with or after food. This product is only suitable for adults and children over the age of 12 years.
Dosage
Prevention of iron deficiency: take one capsule a day
Treatment of iron deficiency: take one capsule twice a day
Warnings
Some foods such as tea, eggs and milk may reduce the amount of iron absorbed by the body. Check with the doctor or pharmacist about which foods to avoid. Galfer capsules may make your stools (poo) darker than normal, which is a normal effect of medicines containing iron. Treatment should not be used for more than 3 months after the iron deficiency has been corrected .
When NOT to use this product
Do NOT use this product if you are allergic to any of the ingredients (see ingredients tab for full list) or if you have:
- Other problems with iron in the blood
- Stomach ulcer or other stomach or bowel problem
- Had repeated blood transfusions in the past
- Anaemia not related to low levels of iron before
- Are currently having iron injections
- ARe currently having dimercaprol injections for treatment of metal poisoning
- Or are under 12 years old
Speak to your doctor BEFORE using this product if you have:
- A history of stomach ulcers
- Had part or all of the stomach removed
- Vitamin deficiency particularly vitamin B12 or folic acid
- Or are a make, as iron deficiency is less common in men than women and the causes may need investigating further by a doctor
Can you use this product with other medicines?
Speak to your doctor BEFORE using this product if you are taking:
- Antibiotics for infections such as neomycin, tetracyclines, chloramphenicol or fluoroquinolones
- Penicillamine for arthritis
- Indigestion remedies, antacids, calcium supplements and zinc
- Colestyramine mainly used for high cholesterol
- Levodopa, carbidopa or entacapone for Parkinson’s Disease
- Levothyroxine for treatment of low thyroid hormone
- Birophosphonates for osteoporosis
- Trientine for Wilson’s Disease
- Methyldopa for high blood pressure
- People having tests on stool samples should tell the doctor, as this medicine may turn stools black and affect test results
Can this medicine cause any side effects?
Like all medicines this product can cause side effects although not everyone will experience them, If you experience any of the following side effects or symptoms, discontinue using this medicine immediately and see a doctor as soon as possible:
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Swelling of the mouth
- Lips
- Skin
- Severe rashes
- Itching
- Stomach pain
Other possible side effects of this product include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and sickness
- Stomach discomfort
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Darkening of stools
- Accumulation of iron in body cells
Important Information
This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk
If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.
Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.
Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.
Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.
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