by What Is Ferrous Sulfate?
It is the most common form of supplemental iron taken to treat and prevent iron deficiency. It contains iron(II) sulfate (FeSO4), an iron salt, and is used medicinally to replenish iron stores in the body.
Physical Properties and Chemical Composition
It is a green vitriol powder that is highly soluble in water. Its molecular formula is FeSO4∙7H2O, meaning it contains iron, sulfur, oxygen, and water molecules. It heptahydrate crystals form and the compound exists as a hydrate with seven water molecules attached to each iron(II) sulfate unit. Ferrous refers to the +2 oxidation state of the iron ion present.
Absorption and Mechanism of Action
When taken orally, ferrous sulfate tablets or liquid supplements dissolve in stomach acid. The iron is then absorbed by enterocytes in the duodenum and proximal small intestine. Here, ferrous iron atoms cross the intestinal barrier and enter circulation. Iron absorbed beyond the body’s current needs is stored primarily in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow as the protein ferritin or hemosiderin. Ferrous iron plays a key role in hemoglobin formation, electron transport, and enzymatic processes throughout the body.
Uses and Health Benefits
By far the most common use of ferrous sulfate is to treat and prevent iron deficiency and the resultant anemia. Iron is essential for oxygen transport via hemoglobin and myoglobin. Signs and symptoms of anemia including fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, irritability, and pale skin often resolve with iron therapy. It is generally the initial treatment of choice due to its low cost and high iron bioavailability.
It can also benefit overall health and development. Adequate iron levels support fetal and infant brain growth as well as cognitive development in children. Iron is necessary for cellular metabolism and energy production in all tissues. Certain populations like pregnant women, young children, and women of childbearing age are more prone to deficiency. Supplementation helps meet increased iron demands.
Side Effects and Safety Precautions
While ferrous sulfate is generally well-tolerated when taken as directed, common side effects may include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation and black stool. Taking the medication with food can help minimize gastrointestinal upset. Interactions with certain foods, medications and supplements are also possible.
To avoid potential toxicity, it’s important not to exceed recommended dosages. Acute iron poisoning can occur if a person accidentally or intentionally consumes a very large amount. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy and shock. Chronic excessive intake has been linked to organ damage over time as well. As with any supplement, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before beginning therapy.
Formulations and Dosing
Ferrous sulfate comes in tablet, liquid suspension and extended-release capsule formulations. The elemental iron content varies between 65mg to 325mg per dosage depending on the strength. Regular tablets are often taken one to three times daily between meals. Liquids and extended-release capsules provide a more continuous release and need less frequent dosing.
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for iron is 18mg per day for adult men and post-menopausal women. Children and pre-menopausal women have higher RDAs ranging from 8-15mg daily depending on age and gender. Therapy for iron deficiency anemia typically involves 300mg of supplemental iron split into divided doses taken during or after meals until levels normalize based on follow-up blood tests. Maintenance doses are then prescribed as needed.
Interactions and Contraindications
Antacids, calcium supplements, fiber supplements, coffee/tea and certain foods high in phytates and polyphenols can reduce ferrous sulfate absorption when consumed at the same time. Drug interactions may occur with thyroid hormones, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, tetracycline antibiotics and anti-arrhythmics like quinidine. People with hereditary hemochromatosis, porphyria or any other illness affecting iron metabolism should avoid supplementation without medical guidance. Pregnant women require prenatal vitamins with iron instead of standalone supplements.
ferrous sulfate is an important, affordable, and widely available form of supplemental iron used to treat and prevent iron deficiency states. While generally well-tolerated, precautions should be taken with dosing, food and medication interactions, toxicity risks and contraindications in certain clinical conditions. Under the guidance of a healthcare provider, it provides a beneficial way to maintain adequate iron levels for overall health and wellness.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Ravina Pandya, a content writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemicals and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals.
