Drug Class: Oral Iron Supplement | Form: Oral Capsule | Status: Prescription Only (Rx) — DRAP Registered | Pack: 30 Capsules | Manufacturer: Continental Pharma
What is Ferricure 150mg?
Ferricure 150mg is an oral iron supplement by Continental Pharma containing Polysaccharide Iron Complex — a gentler, highly bioavailable form of iron that causes significantly less gastrointestinal upset than traditional iron salts such as ferrous sulphate. Each capsule delivers 150mg of elemental iron, making it suitable for treating moderate to severe iron deficiency anaemia under medical supervision. Its polysaccharide matrix allows controlled iron release for better absorption with fewer side effects.
What is Ferricure Used For?
- Treatment of iron deficiency anaemia (خون کی کمی / آئرن کی کمی)
- Prevention of iron deficiency in high-risk groups — pregnant women, heavy menstrual bleeding (حمل اور ماہواری میں خون کی کمی)
- Restoring healthy haemoglobin and red blood cell levels (ہیموگلوبن بڑھانا)
- Reducing fatigue, weakness, and breathlessness caused by low iron (تھکاوٹ اور کمزوری)
- Supporting iron replenishment after surgery or significant blood loss
- Iron supplementation in patients with poor dietary iron intake
- Supporting iron needs in growing adolescents with confirmed deficiency
How Does Ferricure Work?
Polysaccharide Iron Complex delivers elemental iron bound within a polysaccharide matrix — a structure that protects the stomach lining from direct iron contact, significantly reducing the nausea, constipation, and stomach pain commonly associated with standard iron tablets. The iron is released gradually and absorbed efficiently in the small intestine. Once absorbed, iron is incorporated into haemoglobin — the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Restoring iron levels corrects anaemia, improves oxygen delivery to tissues, and reduces fatigue and weakness.
Dosage and Administration
| Indication | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Iron deficiency anaemia (treatment) | 1 capsule | Once or twice daily as prescribed |
| Prevention in pregnancy | 1 capsule | Once daily as directed by doctor |
| Post-surgical iron replenishment | 1 capsule | Once daily as prescribed |
⚠️ Always take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. May be taken with or without food — taking with food further reduces stomach upset. Swallow whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew. Treatment duration is determined by your doctor based on blood test results.
Active Ingredients
| Ingredient | Strength per Capsule |
|---|---|
| Polysaccharide Iron Complex | 150 mg elemental iron |
Who Should NOT Take Ferricure?
- Patients with iron overload conditions — haemochromatosis, haemosiderosis (فالتو آئرن کی بیماری)
- Patients with haemolytic anaemia — iron supplementation without confirmed deficiency is harmful
- Anyone with known allergy to iron supplements or polysaccharide compounds
- Patients with repeated blood transfusions — iron accumulation risk
- Do not self-medicate — always confirm iron deficiency with blood tests before starting iron supplementation
- Children — only under paediatric medical supervision with weight-appropriate dosing
Side Effects
Common:
- Dark or black stools — normal with iron supplements, not harmful
- Mild nausea or stomach discomfort — significantly reduced compared to standard iron salts
- Mild constipation — increase fluid and fibre intake
- Temporary metallic taste
Serious (Stop and consult your doctor if):
- Severe abdominal pain or vomiting (یہ فوری طبی توجہ کی ضرورت ہے)
- Blood in stools or severe constipation unresponsive to dietary measures
- Signs of iron toxicity — extreme nausea, vomiting, lethargy, rapid breathing — seek emergency care immediately
- Severe allergic reaction — rash, swelling, difficulty breathing
Drug Interactions
| Medicine / Substance | Possible Interaction |
|---|---|
| Antacids (aluminium, magnesium, calcium) | Significantly reduce iron absorption — take Ferricure at least 2 hours apart |
| Tetracycline / Fluoroquinolone antibiotics | Iron reduces antibiotic absorption — take antibiotics 2–3 hours before or after |
| Levothyroxine (thyroid medicine) | Iron reduces thyroid medicine absorption — take at least 4 hours apart |
| Calcium supplements | Calcium competes with iron absorption — separate by at least 2 hours |
| Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) | Enhances iron absorption — beneficial combination; may be recommended by doctor |
| Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole) | Reduce stomach acid needed for iron absorption — monitor iron levels |
| Levodopa (Parkinson's medicine) | Iron reduces Levodopa absorption — take separately and monitor |
Storage Instructions
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
- Protect from moisture and direct sunlight
- Keep in original packaging until use
- Keep out of reach of children (بچوں کی پہنچ سے دور رکھیں)
- Do not use after the expiry date on the pack
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is Polysaccharide Iron Complex better tolerated than regular iron tablets?
Standard iron salts like ferrous sulphate release iron directly in the stomach, causing irritation. Polysaccharide Iron Complex binds iron within a protective matrix, releasing it gradually in the intestine — causing significantly less nausea, constipation, and stomach pain.
Q: How long does it take for Ferricure to correct iron deficiency anaemia?
Haemoglobin levels typically begin improving within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent treatment. Full correction of iron stores usually requires 3 to 6 months of treatment — always follow your doctor's instructions and repeat blood tests as advised.
Q: My stools have turned black after starting Ferricure — is this normal?
Yes , dark or black stools are a normal and harmless effect of iron supplementation. However, if stools appear tarry, very dark, or are accompanied by abdominal pain, consult your doctor to rule out gastrointestinal bleeding.
Q: Can I take Ferricure during pregnancy?
Yes, iron supplementation is commonly prescribed during pregnancy to prevent and treat anaemia. Always take the dose prescribed by your gynaecologist and have your iron levels monitored regularly throughout pregnancy.
Medical Disclaimer: This product description is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Iron deficiency anaemia must be confirmed by blood tests before starting iron supplementation. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before use, and never self-medicate with iron supplements.