Ferrous gluconate

Absorption

The efficiency of absorption depends on the salt form, the amount administered, the dosing regimen and the size of iron stores. Subjects with normal iron stores absorb 10% to 35% of an iron dose. Those who are iron deficient may absorb up to 95% of an iron dose.

Toxicity

Acute iron overdosage can be divided into four stages. In the first stage, which occurs up to six hours after ingestion, the principal symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea. Other symptoms include hypotension, tachycardia and CNS depression ranging from lethargy to coma. The second phase may occur at 6-24 hours after ingestion and is characterized by a temporary remission. In the third phase, gastrointestinal symptoms recur accompanied by shock, metabolic acidosis, coma, hepatic necrosis and jaundice, hypoglycemia, renal failure and pulmonary edema. The fourth phase may occur several weeks after ingestion and is characterized by gastrointestinal obstruction and liver damage. In a young child, 75 milligrams per kilogram is considered extremely dangerous. A dose of 30 milligrams per kilogram can lead to symptoms of toxicity. Estimates of a lethal dosage range from 180 milligrams per kilogram and upwards. A peak serum iron concentration of five micrograms or more per ml is associated with moderate to severe poisoning in many.

The Uses of Ferrous gluconate

Ferrous Gluconate is a nutrient and dietary supplement that is a source of iron and a coloring adjunct. it is a yellowish gray to pale greenish yellow powder or granules with a burnt sugar odor. it has a solubility of 1 g in approximately 10 ml of water with slight heating. it is used by the pharmaceutical industry as an iron supplement in vitamin pills. it is used by olive growers to darken the olives to a uniform black color. it can function as an iron fortifier in corn and soy products, breakfast cereals, beverages, and dietary foods.

Indications

Used in preventing and treating iron-deficiency anemia.

Pharmacokinetics

The major activity of supplemental iron is in the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia. Iron has putative immune-enhancing, anticarcinogenic and cognition-enhancing activities.

Metabolism

Not Available