Just a few questions from our Pharmacist before you checkout to make sure this medicine is safe for you.
What is Galfer Syrup?
Galfer Syrup contains ferrous fumarate, a medicine used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anaemia. You may be at higher risk of developing iron deficiency anaemia if you are pregnant, have heavy periods, eat a diet lacking in vitamins and minerals, or if you have intestinal disorders like Crohn's disease and coeliac disease. Most people with iron deficiency anaemia feel better after one week of taking ferrous fumarate, but it can take up to four weeks to take full effect.
What is the recommended dosage?
Ferrous fumarate, the active ingredient in Galfer Syrup, works best when taken on an empty stomach. If Galfer Syrup upsets your stomach, however, take it with or after food. Please note: some foods such as tea, eggs and milk may reduce the amount of iron absorbed by the body. The recommended dosage for adults and children over the age of 12 years old is as follows:
- To prevent iron deficiency, take two 5ml spoonfuls once a day.
- To treat iron deficiency, take two 5ml spoonfuls once or twice a day.
Supplements can be beneficial for your health if you don’t get enough essential vitamins and minerals through your diet alone. This medicine, however, is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
What are the symptoms of low iron?
When the body doesn’t have enough iron, the number of red blood cells are reduced and oxygen won’t be carried around the body as effectively as it should. This can lead to the following symptoms:
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Heart palpitations
- A pale complexion
- Shortness of breath
Other, less common symptoms include headaches, tinnitus, an altered sense of taste, itchiness, a sore or abnormally smooth tongue, hair loss, pica (a desire to eat non-food items), difficulty swallowing, mouth ulcers and spoon-shaped nails.
These symptoms may indicate that you have low levels of iron but they could be signs of another problem, like folate deficiency anaemia, that can cause similar symptoms. That’s why you should always consult your doctor to confirm your diagnosis - a simple blood test will indicate if you’re lacking in any essential vitamins or nutrients and will rule out other possible conditions.
When should this medicine not be used?
Galfer Syrup may not be suitable for certain people. Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to any of the ingredients or if any of the following apply to you:
- You have other problems with iron in the blood (including conditions that lead to iron building up in soft tissues, or problems with red blood cells)
- You have a stomach ulcer or other stomach or bowel problem
- You have had repeated blood transfusions in the past
- You have anaemia not related to low levels of iron before
- You are currently having iron injections
- You are taking dimercaprol for metal poisoning
Talk to your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist before taking this medicine if any of the following apply to you:
- You are male (iron deficiency is less common in men than women, and the causes may need investigating further by the doctor)
- You have a history of stomach ulcers
- You have vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12 or folic acid
- You have an intolerance to some sugars, or have been diagnosed with hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI), a rare genetic disorder in which a person cannot break down fructose
- You are taking any other medicines or herbal remedies, including those obtained without a prescription
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
Are there any side effects?
Like all medicines, Galfer Syrup may cause side effects in some people, but these won’t affect everybody. Seek emergency medical attention if you notice any signs of a severe allergic reaction, symptoms of which include swelling of the face and throat, skin rash, breathing difficulties and/or loss of consciousness. Other side effects include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and sickness
- Stomach discomfort
- Constipation, particularly in the elderly
- Diarrhoea, particularly in those with bowel complaints
- Darkening of the stools
- Blackening of the teeth
If you experience any side effects, including any not included in the patient information leaflet, you can report them using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
Storage information
Store in a cool, dry place out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date, referring to the last day of the month stated on the packaging. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste.
Important information
This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist4U 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.
Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction
For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here.
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