Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) is a prescription medication used to treat adults with iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in blood iron levels, which can cause symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, and a racing heart. Iron is an essential component of blood, as it helps produce healthy blood and transport oxygen throughout the body. Conditions such as excessive bleeding, pregnancy, and consumption of food deficient in iron may cause low iron levels in the blood. The active ingredient in Acrrufer is Ferric Maltol. Ferric maltol provides a form of iron that can be absorbed through the digestive system, helping to increase the number of red blood cells in the body. Ferric Maltol belongs to a class of medications called Iron preparations. Accrufer works by improving the absorption of iron in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby minimizing excessive iron loss in the stool.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Accrufer, manufactured by Kye Pharmaceuticals Inc. from Canada and by Norgine Pharmaceuticals from the United Kingdom, in the strength of 30 mg capsules only. The generic Ferric Maltol is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Accrufer. The most common side effects of Accrufer may include the following:
• Abdominal pain;
• Bloating;
• Constipation;
• Excessive gas;
• Passage of dark colour stool
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Blood in your poo (stool);
• Serious abdominal pain;
• Shallow, rapid breathing;
• You suddenly become very confused;
• Worsening of your symptoms
These are not all of Accrufer's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Accrufer if you are allergic to it or any ingredient in Accrufer. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Are receiving a blood transfusion;
• Have a history of inflammatory bowel disease);
• Have kidney problems
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Accrufer and other medicines, such as mycophenolate, antacid, dimercaprol, and other iron supplements. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, or plan to get pregnant, and have symptoms such as fainting, weakness, or heart racing during pregnancy. Pregnancy is one of the common causes of iron deficiency anemia, and it can be serious if not treated immediately. Your doctor or midwife may recommend that you take an iron supplement (ferrous fumarate) in pregnancy. Iron supplements are safe to take during pregnancy, and it is essential to treat low iron levels to ensure you and your baby remain healthy. Discuss with your doctor if the Accrufer capsule is safe for you and the baby. It is also safe to take iron medication during breastfeeding. Iron is a natural part of breast milk. Discuss your concerns with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Accrufer medication.
It is best to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to Accrufer or have other concerns when using Accrufer, especially if you have iron overload (hemochromatosis). This medication is not suitable for individuals receiving blood transfusions or those diagnosed with iron overload. A doctor or pharmacist should prescribe Accrufer after you have been assessed. It is essential to attend your clinic appointment and follow up as scheduled thereafter. Accrufer comes as a capsule and it should be taken orally on an empty stomach, at least an hour before eating, or 2 hours after eating. You should take it with a cup of water or vitamin C juice. It has been found that vitamin C improves iron absorption. Please do not take the medication with milk, as it can prevent the iron from being absorbed by your gut. Accrufer is often recommended to be taken twice a day. However, your doctor or pharmacist may suggest a dose that is more appropriate for you. To ensure effectiveness, avoid taking an antacid at the same time. To prevent iron deficiency anemia, you'll need to take ferrous fumarate for as long as you're at risk of getting this condition. Most people feel better after taking ferrous fumarate for 1 week, but it may take up to 12 weeks to work fully. You may need medical tests to help determine how long you should use Accrufer. Do not overdose or take more than your prescribed dosage, as this doesn't manage your condition but worsens it. It is best to consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.