Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Ferrous gluconate as follows:
- Follow closely on the expiration date of the medication. If using a pillbox, check the expiration date on the medication container every time you fill the pillbox. If you are taking this medication for longer periods of time, set enough advance reminders on your phone for refill pick-up, before you run out of the medication. This helps with securing the refill in time and making arrangements for pick-up at the pharmacy.
- This medication yields the best results, when taken on an empty stomach with a glass of water, about an hour before meal or two hours after meal. If taking this medication on empty stomach induces some nausea and vomiting, try taking the medication with a small snack or a small cup of orange juice, to help avoid any unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Continue taking Ferrous gluconate as ordered, even if you experience relief from the symptoms of anemia. Abrupt discontinuation on Ferrous gluconate intake can result in continued symptoms of anemia, pale skin and mucus membranes, exacerbation of shortness of breath, and weakness. Discontinuing the medication should only be on your physician’s recommendation.
- Oral Ferrous gluconate needs acid environment in the stomach to be easily absorbed. So, it can be taken with a small cup of orange juice or an OTC supplement of vitamin C, as they are acidic in nature and help better absorption of Ferrous gluconate in the stomach. Avoid having any antacids for 2 hours before and after taking the Ferrous gluconate, as they can dilute the acid environment in the stomach, thereby hindering absorption of Ferrous gluconate.
