Niferex (Ferrous (Ii) Glycine Sulfate Complex)

Niferex, an oral iron supplement, addresses conditions related to iron deficiency.

• Iron deficiency anemia: restores normal hemoglobin levels and alleviates fatigue.
• Iron deficiency in chronic kidney disease: supports erythropoiesis and reduces the need for intravenous iron.
• Iron deficiency in children: promotes normal growth and cognitive development.

• Ferrous (II) Glycine Sulfate Complex dissociates in the gastrointestinal tract, releasing ferrous ions that are readily absorbed via the divalent metal transporter‑1 (DMT‑1) in the duodenal epithelium. The absorbed iron enters the plasma bound to transferrin, delivering it to the bone marrow for incorporation into heme and to peripheral tissues for enzymatic functions, thereby supporting hemoglobin synthesis and cellular metabolism.

Oral iron supplementation may be associated with a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and abdominal discomfort: mild gastrointestinal upset that often improves with food.
• Constipation or diarrhea: changes in bowel habits that may require dietary adjustment.
• Darkened stools: harmless discoloration due to unabsorbed iron.
• Metallic taste in the mouth: transient taste alteration.
• Gastric irritation: burning sensation in the stomach area.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): rapid onset of hives, swelling, and breathing difficulty.
• Iron overload: accumulation of iron in organs leading to liver or heart damage.
• Acute intestinal obstruction: severe constipation causing blockage of the bowel.

When using Niferex, several precautionary measures should be observed to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• Assess iron status: confirm deficiency before initiating therapy.
• Monitor hemoglobin: periodic blood tests to evaluate response.
• Avoid in iron overload: contraindicated for patients with hemochromatosis or other iron‑storage disorders.
• Take with food: reduces gastrointestinal irritation and improves tolerance.
• Keep out of reach of children: accidental ingestion can cause serious toxicity.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Iron absorption can be affected by several concomitant medications, leading to clinically relevant interactions.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Tetracycline antibiotics: chelate iron and markedly reduce oral absorption.
• Fluoroquinolone antibiotics: form insoluble complexes, decreasing effectiveness of both agents.
• Levothyroxine: iron interferes with absorption, requiring separate dosing times.
• Bisphosphonates: concurrent intake diminishes absorption of both drugs.
• Antacids containing aluminum, magnesium or calcium: significantly impair iron uptake.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Proton pump inhibitors: may reduce gastric acidity, modestly lowering iron absorption.
• Oral contraceptives: iron may slightly decrease estrogen levels; monitor menstrual changes.
• Vitamin C supplements: enhance iron absorption, potentially increasing risk of overload if high doses are used.