Fefan Tablet Uses

Fefan tablet is used to address nutritional deficiencies, particularly in individuals who have low levels of iron (ferrous fumarate) and/or folate (folic acid). The following are some common and off-label uses of Fefan Tablet:

Common Uses of Fefan Tablet

1. Iron Deficiency Anemia: Fefan is used to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia, a condition characterized by a lower-than-normal level of red blood cells due to insufficient iron. Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen in the blood.
2. Folate Deficiency Anemia: Fefan tablets provide essential vitamins for the production of red blood cells. A deficiency in folic acid can lead to a type of anemia known as folate deficiency anemia. Fefan tablet helps to address this deficiency.
3. Pregnancy and Lactation: Fefan tablet is used especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It helps prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus and supports the increased blood volume during pregnancy.
4. Malabsorption or Malnutrition: Fefan tablets may be used for individuals with conditions or situations that affect nutrient absorption, such as certain gastrointestinal disorders, malabsorption syndromes, or after certain types of surgeries.
5. Menstrual Bleeding: Some women, particularly those with heavy menstrual bleeding, may be at higher risk for iron deficiency anemia. Using Fefan tablets can help replenish iron stores.
6. Chronic Illnesses: Individuals with chronic illnesses, like inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or certain types of cancer, may have difficulty absorbing iron and folic acid from their diet. Fefan tablets can be used to address the deficiency of these nutrients.
7. Before and After Surgery: In some cases, a healthcare provider might recommend Fefan tablets before and after surgery, particularly if there is an increased risk of bleeding or if the individual has low iron stores.

Off-label Uses of Fefan Tablet

1. Fatigue and Low Energy: Some healthcare providers may use Fefan tablets for individuals experiencing fatigue or low energy levels, especially if blood tests indicate low iron levels.
2. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): Fefan tablets can be beneficial for individuals with RLS, particularly those with low iron stores.
3. Hair Loss (Alopecia): Iron deficiency can contribute to hair loss. In cases of iron deficiency-related hair loss, Fefan tablets may be considered.
4. Depression: Some studies have explored the potential benefits of iron supplementation in individuals with depression, especially in cases where iron deficiency is present. Folic acid may be included due to its involvement in neurotransmitter production.
5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): People with IBD, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, may experience challenges with iron absorption. In such cases, Fefan tablet supplementation might be used to address deficiencies.
6. Infertility: In some cases, iron and folic acid supplementation may be recommended as part of fertility treatment, especially for individuals with known deficiencies.
7. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Individuals with CKD can develop anemia due to decreased production of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. Iron and folic acid supplements may be used to manage anemia in these cases.
8. Sickle Cell Disease: Individuals with sickle cell disease often experience anemia. Fefan tablets may be part of the treatment plan.
9. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Some studies suggest that iron supplementation may have benefits for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, although more research is needed in this area.
10. Heart Failure: Iron deficiency is common in individuals with heart failure and can exacerbate symptoms. Fefan tablet may be considered in these cases.

Fefan is a pharmaceutical product with a combination of Ferrous Fumarate and Folic Acid, manufactured and marketed by Amson Vaccines & Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

The following are Some Alternative Brands of Fefan and Their Manufacturers.

• Polymalt F : high-Q Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Bisleri : Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Rubifer-F : AGP (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Acefer-F : Saffron Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Hemovit : Indus Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Vitron C : Zinta Pharmaceuticals Industries, Pakistan.
• Ronuvit : Chas. A. Mendoza, Pakistan.
• Gericap : Polyfine Chempharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Foliron : Benson Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
• Ferimoz : Don Valley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Neofe Folic : Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Presently, Fefan is available in Tablet form.

• Fefan Tablet : Folic Acid 0.5mg + Ferrous Fumarate 150mg strength.

Like any medication, Fefan tablets have certain contraindications, which are situations or conditions where its use is not recommended or should be avoided due to the potential for adverse effects or complications.

1. Allergy or Hypersensitivity: Individuals who have had an allergic reaction to ferrous fumarate, folic acid, or any other component of the Fefan tablet should avoid using it.
2. Hemochromatosis: This is a condition where the body absorbs and stores too much iron. Using Fefan tablets can exacerbate excess iron levels and should be avoided.
3. Hemosiderosis: This is another condition characterized by an excess of iron in the body’s tissues. The use of Fefan tablets can worsen this condition.
4. Anemias Not Due to Iron Deficiency: Fefan tablet is specifically indicated for iron-deficiency anemia. It is not suitable for anemias caused by other factors.
5. Megaloblastic Anemia without Iron Deficiency: If a person has megaloblastic anemia (characterized by abnormally large red blood cells) without a deficiency in iron, they do not require a Fefan tablet.
6. Porphyria: Individuals with porphyria, a rare inherited metabolic disorder, may need to avoid Fefan tablets. They should consult their healthcare provider.
7. Alcoholism and Liver Disease: People with alcoholism or liver disease may have an increased risk of iron overload. The use of the Fefan tablet should be carefully monitored in these cases.

Fefan Tablet dose for Adults:

• 1 – 2 tablets, Once or twice a day

The usual dose is 325 milligrams (mg) of ferrous fumarate and 1 mg of folic acid taken once or twice a day.

Fefan Tablet Dose for Children:

• The usual dose is 65 mg of ferrous fumarate and 0.4 mg of folic acid per kg of body weight taken once or twice a day.
• Approximately, a half tablet once or twice daily.

A Fefan tablet combines two essential nutrients: iron and folic acid. Each of these components serves distinct roles in the body:

1. Ferrous Fumarate:
   • Mode of Action: Ferrous fumarate is a form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
   • Iron Absorption: When ingested, ferrous fumarate releases iron ions in the stomach. These ions are absorbed into the bloodstream primarily in the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine).
   • Hemoglobin Synthesis: Iron is incorporated into hemoglobin during the process of erythropoiesis (red blood cell formation). This enables the newly formed red blood cells to effectively carry oxygen.
2. Folic Acid:
   • Mode of Action: Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes, including DNA synthesis and repair.
   • DNA Synthesis: Folic acid is essential for the synthesis of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA. This is particularly important during periods of rapid cell division and growth, such as pregnancy and infancy.
   • Erythropoiesis: Folic acid is necessary for the production of red blood cells. It helps to ensure that the cells produced are of normal size and shape.