Ferrous fumarate (Galfer): iron capsules, tablets and liquid

Ferrous fumarate is one of the iron salts used to correct low iron. The NHS describes it as a medicine to treat or prevent the symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia, and iron itself as a mineral that helps keep the body healthy. The usual UK brand is Galfer.

Tablets, capsules and an oral liquid are available. It can be prescribed, and it can also be bought from pharmacies.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist first if your anaemia is not caused by iron deficiency, if you have sickle cell disease or thalassaemia, if you have stomach ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome, if you have regular blood transfusions, or if your iron levels are already high.

The NHS says you will usually take 1 tablet, capsule or liquid dose once a day, at the same time each day, with water. If side effects are a problem, the dose may be taken every other day instead. It can be taken on an empty stomach or with food, and taking it with food may help with stomach side effects.

Liquid doses should be measured with the plastic syringe or spoon that comes with the medicine, never a normal spoon. Swallow tablets with water; check with a healthcare professional before chewing or crushing them.

A missed dose can be taken when you remember unless the next dose is close, in which case skip it. Do not take two doses to catch up.

It can take a couple of months for iron levels to improve, and a doctor may check them after about 4 weeks. If you bought ferrous fumarate without a prescription, do not take it for longer than 6 months. Beyond that, talk to a prescriber.

Keep taking your medicine unless you are advised not to. Some foods and drinks affect how the medicine works, including tea, eggs and milk.

Common effects are diarrhoea or constipation, stomach pain, heartburn, feeling sick and darker than usual stools. Rarely, an allergic reaction causes a swollen throat or tongue, a raised itchy rash or difficulty breathing.

• Call NHS 111 if side effects bother you or you suspect a serious one.

• Call 999 for signs of anaphylaxis.

• Report suspected side effects through the Yellow Card scheme.

If you or a child has taken more than the packet says, call NHS 111 or go to A&E; children are particularly at risk, and even a small excess can be dangerous. If you are told to go to A&E, do not drive. Take the packet or leaflet with you.

You can usually take ferrous fumarate when pregnant or breastfeeding, but check with a healthcare professional first.

Iron can change how some medicines work, and some medicines affect iron. The NHS names doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, antacids, magnesium, calcium and zinc supplements, and levothyroxine. Ask your pharmacist how to space them out.