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Home > Drug Category > Iron Supplements > Accrufer and Equivalent

Accrufer Information

Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) is used for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adults. Iron deficiency is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient iron. This essential mineral is essential for producing hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Without sufficient iron, the body can't produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to anemia (a condition characterized by low red blood cell count) and resulting symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, fainting, or even death. Iron deficiency may occur due to chronic blood loss, inadequate dietary intake, or chronic conditions that impair iron absorption, such as inflammatory bowel disease or chronic kidney disease. The active ingredient in Accrufer is ferric maltol, a type of oral iron supplement. Unlike traditional iron salts, ferric maltol is a stable complex of ferric iron and maltol. Accrufer works by delivering iron to the body in a controlled and efficient manner. The maltol acts as a protective shield around the ferric iron, preventing it from reacting with the acidic environment of the stomach. This action enables the iron complex to travel intact to the small intestine, where the body can absorb it more effectively. Once absorbed, the iron is then utilized by the body to produce new red blood cells and replenish depleted iron stores, thereby alleviating the symptoms and effects of iron deficiency. By restoring adequate iron levels, Accrufer helps to improve the body's ability to transport oxygen, leading to increased energy and overall better health.

Accrufer Side Effects

Like all medications, Accrufer may cause some side effects. Some common side effects include abdominal bloating, constipation, darkened stools, diarrhea, gas, nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Seizures;
• Shallow and rapid breathing;
• Signs of too much iron in the body, such as diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, bluish lips, fingernails, or palms, abnormal heartbeat

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Accrufer Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to the active or inactive ingredients in Accrufer or any other iron supplement. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Gastrointestinal problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease and lactose intolerance.
• Hemochromatosis or other iron overload conditions

This medicine is not for use in patients who are receiving repeated blood transfusions. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This medication is not recommended for use in children. Accrufer may interact with other drugs or substances, such as dimercaprol, doxycycline, levofloxacin, levothyroxine, and mycophenolate. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including vitamins or supplements, that you are taking before starting Accrufer to prevent potential drug interactions.

Take Accrufer capsules orally as directed by your doctor or as indicated on the medication label. The usual dose for an average adult is 30 mg twice daily. This medication is best taken on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Swallow the capsules whole; do not chew or break them open. Ferric maltol is typically taken for at least 12 weeks. Still, it may need to be taken for more extended periods, depending on the severity of your iron deficiency, as determined by your doctor. Do not use more than the prescribed dose of this medication. Also, store this medication at room temperature and ensure you keep it away from children to avoid accidental use, which can be fatal in children.

Do I need a prescription to order Accrufer?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Accrufer.