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Ferric Maltol: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Ferric Maltol is indicated for the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) in adults and pediatric patients 10 years of age and older.

Forms:Capsule

About Ferric Maltol

Indications of Ferric Maltol

Ferric Maltol is indicated for the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) in adults and pediatric patients 10 years of age and older.

  • Primary approved use: Treatment of iron-deficiency anemia, including in patients with underlying inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), where Ferric Maltol has demonstrated favorable gastrointestinal tolerability compared with conventional ferrous iron salts.
  • Niche/distinguishing use: Patients who have not responded adequately to, or who cannot tolerate, other oral iron products (e.g., ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate) due to gastrointestinal side effects.

Ferric Maltol is not indicated for iron-deficiency states not related to true iron deficiency, nor for conditions where rapid iron repletion (e.g., severe symptomatic anemia requiring transfusion) is required.

Dosage & Administration of Ferric Maltol

Adults

The recommended dose of Ferric Maltol is one capsule (30 mg elemental iron) taken orally twice daily (morning and evening), approximately 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, for a minimum of 12 weeks or as directed by the physician.

Pediatric Patients (10 years and older)

The same adult dosing regimen (one capsule twice daily) is used in pediatric patients 10 years of age and older; safety and effectiveness in children below 10 years have not been established.

Duration and Monitoring

Treatment is typically continued until hemoglobin and ferritin levels normalize, with periodic monitoring of iron parameters. Duration may extend beyond 12 weeks based on clinical and laboratory response, as advised by the treating physician.

Renal/Hepatic Impairment

No well-established dose adjustment has been defined for renal or hepatic impairment; use with caution and physician supervision in these populations.

Side Effects of Ferric Maltol

A key advantage of Ferric Maltol is generally better gastrointestinal tolerability compared with conventional ferrous iron salts; nonetheless, adverse effects can still occur, most commonly gastrointestinal in nature.

Common

  • Flatulence
  • Abdominal pain/discomfort
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Discoloration of stool (dark/black stools - an expected, harmless effect of oral iron)
  • Nausea, vomiting, bloating

Less Common/Serious

  • Flare of underlying inflammatory bowel disease (in patients with IBD)
  • Signs of iron overload with prolonged inappropriate use (see Overdose)

In clinical trials, fewer than 5% of patients discontinued Ferric Maltol due to side effects, reflecting its favorable tolerability profile relative to ferrous salts.

Contraindications of Ferric Maltol

Ferric Maltol is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to ferric maltol or any excipient in the formulation.
  • Conditions associated with iron overload or disturbed iron utilization, including hemochromatosis and hemosiderosis.
  • Anemias not caused by iron deficiency (e.g., hemolytic anemia, other non-iron-deficiency anemias).
  • Patients receiving repeated blood transfusions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ferric Maltol

What is Ferric Maltol used for?

Ferric Maltol is used to treat iron-deficiency anemia in adults and children 10 years and older, particularly in patients with inflammatory bowel disease or those who cannot tolerate conventional iron supplements.

How should I take Ferric Maltol?

Take one capsule of Ferric Maltol twice daily, about 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, swallowed whole with water. Avoid taking it with antacids, dairy, tea, or coffee, which can reduce absorption.

Can I take Ferric Maltol during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Ferric Maltol should be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding only if clearly needed and under medical supervision, as the potential benefit must be weighed against any potential risk; data specific to this formulation remain limited, so consult your physician before use.

What are the common side effects of Ferric Maltol?

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, including gas, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and dark discoloration of the stool. Ferric Maltol is generally better tolerated than older iron salts, and fewer than 5% of patients stop treatment due to side effects.

Who should not take Ferric Maltol?

Ferric Maltol should not be used by people with a known allergy to it, those with iron overload conditions such as hemochromatosis, those with anemia not caused by iron deficiency, or patients receiving repeated blood transfusions.

What should I do if I accidentally take too much Ferric Maltol?

Overdose of Ferric Maltol, especially in children, can be serious. If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center/emergency services right away rather than attempting home treatment.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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