Fefan tablet is an iron supplement used for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, anemia of nutritional origin, and during pregnancy. Fefan contains ferrous fumarate and folic acid that increase Hb (Hemoglobin) and iron levels in the blood, thus contributing to the production of normal red blood cells. Fefan tablet is available OTC and on prescription.
Manufactured by: Amazon Vaccine and Pharma (PVT) Ltd
Generic: Ferrous Fumarate 150 mg, folic acid 0.5 mg
Drug class: Anti-anemic/ Iron supplement
Product form: Tablets
Strength: 150/0.5mg (Fefan Tablet)
300/5mg (Fefan DS Tablet)
Mechanism of Action
Fefan tablet contains ferrous fumarate which is an iron salt. Iron helps the body in making healthy red blood cells. Folic acid is a type of vitamin B, known as vitamin B9 or folate that is required to develop nucleoproteins of red blood cells in the body. Folic acid, thus, stimulates the production of red blood cells in people with megaloblastic anemia.
What is Fefan Tablet Price in Pakistan?
Fefan tablets cost ranges between 40-50 PKR per pack of 30 tablets pack. The Fefan tablet price varies depending on the manufacturer and the tablet’s strength.
What is the Fefan Tablet Used for?
Fefan tablet uses include;
- Megaloblastic Anemia: This type of anemia results in the production of abnormally large red blood cells due to a deficiency of vitamin B9 or folate. Fefan tablet containing B9 or folic acid stimulates the bone marrow for the production of normal Red blood cells.
- Nutritional deficiency anemia: A diet with insufficient iron can lead to anemia. Fefan acts as an iron supplement to replenish nutritional deficiencies, leading to the increased production of normal red blood cells.
- Pregnancy: Low iron levels during pregnancy can lead to premature birth, neural tube defects in newborns, and postpartum depression. Fefan tablet is indicated to prevent iron deficiency during pregnancy.
- Impaired memory and thinking: Fefan tablet is used for the treatment of cognitive impairments caused by iron deficiency. Thinking and memory issues are more common in children and are directly linked to iron deficiency anemia.
How to Take Fefan?
Follow the given instructions while using the Fefan tablet for iron deficiency;
- Take the tablet by mouth with water.
- Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
- Iron supplements work best when taken on an empty stomach.
- Take a Fefan tablet 1-2 hours before the meal.
- If your stomach gets upset due to the Fefan tablet, take the medicine in between your meal.
- Avoid drinking tea, coffee, or other caffeinated drinks when on Fefan as they can increase the risk of developing gastric issues.
- For maximum benefits, take the Fefan tablet regularly at the same time.
- It is recommended to take a Fefan tablet preferably during day time.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose of the medicine.
Read Also: Best Iron syrups for Children in Pakistan
What is Fefan dosage?
The recommended dose of Fefan tablet is;
For adults;
1 tablet orally daily for at least 3-4 months
For children;
0.5mg/kg daily
It is recommended to consult an anemia doctor for a suitable Fefan tablet dosage based on your body’s needs.
What are Fefan Tablet’s side effects?
Some of the side effects reported with the use of Fefan tablet are;
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Allergic reactions
- Trouble breathing
- Dizziness
- Darkening of stool
These side effects are temporary and may subside on their own. However, if the side effects persist or serious allergic reactions occur, it is recommended to stop taking the Fefan tablet and consult the doctor immediately.
What are the warnings associated with Fefan Tablet?
Some of the precautions and warnings associated with the use of Fefan tablets are;
- Tell the doctor about all the medicines, including the supplements that you are taking.
- Inform the doctor about any underlying medical condition that you have.
- Avoid taking the Fefan tablet with other iron supplements.
- Fefan tablets can interfere with certain lab test results.
- Fefan tablets can worsen the symptoms of gastritis, acidity, or ulcers.
- The tablet is not recommended for people with liver problems.
- Use the medicine on prescription if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant.
Also, read: Foro B12 syrup uses
Does Fefan Tablet react with medicines?
Fefan tablet can interact with certain medicines and interfere with their absorption including;
- Antibiotics like levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, etc
- Levodopa
- Anti-seizure drugs
- Acetaminophen
- Acyclovir
- Baclofen
To avoid serious drug-drug interactions, it is advised to inform your doctor about all the prescription, OTC, and herbal medicines that you are taking.
Is Fefan Tablet safe during Pregnancy?
Fefan tablet is safe for use during pregnancy to avoid iron deficiency in women and fetal abnormalities in the developing baby. Folic acid is particularly during the first pregnancy trimester.
Fefan tablet is secreted in breast milk and can cause iron overload in infants. Do not use the Fefan tablet without a doctor’s prescription during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
What are the alternatives to Fefan Tablet?
Some of the alternative options to Fefan tablet for iron supplementation include;
- FeroSul
- Foro B12
- Bifera
- Elite Iron
What happens with a Fefan Tablet Overdose?
Fefan tablet overdose can result in;
- Severe breathing issues
- Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain
- Fainting
If you accidentally overdose on Fefan tablets, consult the doctor immediately to avoid serious consequences.
What happens if you miss the Fefan dose?
Take the Fefan tablet daily or as prescribed. If you miss the dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the time of the next dose is near, skip the previous dose and take the upcoming dose as per the schedule.
Avoid taking the double iron dose as it can result in iron overload.
How to store Fefan dose?
Follow the given instructions to properly store the Fefan tablet;
- Store the medicine at room temperature
- Keep Fefan tablet out of the reach of children
- Keep the medicine away from sunlight and moisture
- Do not discard the medicine in the drain or flush
Fefan tablet is available OTC but to avoid side effects and any serious drug interactions, it is recommended to consult a doctor prior to using Fefan tablet for anemia.
FAQs
1. Who can take iron and folic acid tablets?
Iron supplementation is recommended for women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. It can be used by anyone who has iron deficiency anemia or is at risk of malnutrition.
2. What are the uses of Fefan Ds?
Fefan double-strength tablet is indicated for people with severe iron deficiency and in pregnant women to avoid iron deficiency defects in the developing fetus.
3. Which tablet can increase Hb?
Folic acid and iron supplements can increase hemoglobin, and thus red blood cell production. The tablets to increase Hb are available over the counter or on prescription.
Disclaimer: The content published on Marham.pk is for informational or educational purposes only, produced from FDA-approved literature, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before using a prescription or over-the-counter drug, or any other treatment option.