Palafer (Ferrous Fumarate) is an over-the-counter medication used to treat iron deficiency anemia. This is a lack of red blood cells caused by having too little iron in the body. Iron is an important mineral the body needs to produce red blood cells and keep you healthy. The active ingredient in Palafer is Ferrous Fumarate. Ferrous Fumarate belongs to a class of medications called iron products. It works by increasing the iron levels in your blood to improve or prevent the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Palafer from Canada manufactured by Bausch & Lomb. The generic Ferrous Fumarate is also available from Canada by a different manufacturer.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Palafer. The most common side effects of Palafer may include the following:
• Appetite loss;
• Dark-colored stools;
• Diarrhea;
• Stomach cramps
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Bloody or tarry stools;
• Severe nausea;
• Severe stomach pain;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat
These are not all of the side effects of Palafer. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Palafer if you are allergic to Ferrous Fumarate or any ingredient in Palafer. 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;
• Have hemolytic anemia;
• Have iron overload syndrome;
• Have stomach ulcer;
• Have ulcerative colitis;
• Have vitamin B12 deficiency
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Palafer and other medicines, like alendronate, levodopa, ciprofloxacin, levothyroxine, doxycycline, penicillamine, etc. Avoid taking this medication at the same time as antacids. Wait at least 2 hours between taking this medication and an antacid. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if Palafer will harm an unborn baby. Your dosage may be different during pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Ferrous Fumarate passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm your nursing infant.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Palafer comes as a capsule. Take it with a full glass of water. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking your dose. Take this drug on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. You can take this drug with food if it upsets your stomach. Take this drug regularly to get the most benefit from it. You may need to follow a special diet while using ferrous fumarate. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods to eat to ensure you get enough iron from your diet and your medication. Do not take this medicine for longer than 6 months without a doctor's advice. Avoid eating foods that are high in fiber at the same time you take your ferrous fumarate dose. High-fiber foods include whole grains, raw vegetables, and bran. Avoid milk or other dairy products for at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take ferrous fumarate. Iron may cause your stools to turn black. This effect is not harmful. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.