Maltofer Fol (Folic Acid, Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex)

Maltofer Fol is used to address conditions related to iron and folate deficiency, supporting hematologic health.

• Iron deficiency anemia: restores iron stores and promotes normal hemoglobin production.
• Folate deficiency: supplies folic acid to support DNA synthesis and red blood cell maturation.
• Anemia during pregnancy: helps prevent maternal anemia and supports fetal development.
• Nutritional deficiency states: complements diet to correct combined iron and folate shortfalls.

• The ferric hydroxide polymaltose complex delivers bioavailable iron that is absorbed through the duodenal mucosa and incorporated into heme synthesis, enhancing hemoglobin formation. Folic acid acts as a co‑factor in the synthesis of purines and thymidine, facilitating DNA replication and maturation of erythrocyte precursors. Together they promote effective erythropoiesis and correct both iron and folate deficits.

Maltofer Fol may be associated with a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset that often improves with meals.
• Abdominal discomfort: cramping or pain in the upper abdomen.
• Constipation or loose stools: changes in bowel habit, usually transient.
• Darkened stools: harmless discoloration due to iron.
• Headache: mild to moderate tension‑type headache.
• Metallic taste: temporary metallic sensation in the mouth.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction with hives, swelling, and breathing difficulty.
• Gastrointestinal bleeding: vomiting blood or black tarry stools indicating possible ulceration.
• Iron overload: accumulation of iron in organs, potentially causing liver or heart damage.
• Hypersensitivity rash or urticaria: widespread itching and skin eruptions.
• Acute liver injury: rare elevation of liver enzymes leading to jaundice.

Before using Maltofer Fol, consider the following precautions to ensure safe and effective therapy.

• Pregnancy: consult a healthcare professional to assess risk‑benefit.
• Breastfeeding: use only if advised by a physician, as iron and folic acid pass into milk.
• Iron overload disorders (e.g., hemochromatosis): avoid use to prevent toxic accumulation.
• Concurrent infections or inflammatory bowel disease: monitor iron status closely.
• Drug interactions: review all concomitant medications with a pharmacist or physician.
• Store at ambient temperature below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Maltofer Fol can affect the absorption or efficacy of several medicines; interactions are categorized by clinical significance.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: bind iron and markedly reduce its absorption.
• Tetracycline antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline): chelate iron, decreasing antibiotic effectiveness.
• Levothyroxine: iron interferes with thyroid hormone absorption, requiring separate dosing times.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Proton pump inhibitors: may lower gastric acidity and modestly reduce iron uptake.
• Oral contraceptives: can alter folate metabolism, warranting folate level monitoring.
• Vitamin C supplements: increase iron absorption, which may raise risk of overload in susceptible individuals.