Iron supplement (Haematinic)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Ferrous fumarate is an iron supplement that works by giving your body the iron it needs to produce healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen around your body.
Provides bioavailable ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) that is absorbed in the duodenum and proximal jejunum, where it binds to transferrin for transport to bone marrow and replenishes depleted iron stores essential for haemoglobin synthesis and oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.
Avoid taking it with tetracycline or ciprofloxacin antibiotics, as iron reduces their effectiveness, so take them at least 2 hours apart. Antacids like magnesium trisilicate (commonly used for ulcer) reduce iron absorption, so space them apart. Tea, coffee, and milk also block iron absorption: take your iron with water or orange juice instead.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Ferrous with your other drugs?
Ferrous fumarate is generally safe and commonly recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding to prevent anaemia, but always follow your doctor's or antenatal clinic's dosage instructions.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in cars. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity. Keep far away from children as iron overdose in children can be very dangerous.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.