Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Ferralet as follows:
- Ferralet must be administered with extreme caution in individuals with chronic history of severe alcoholism. Alcohol consumed in excessive amounts can result in the body absorbing dietary iron in significantly large amounts than normal. Excess of the iron absorbed results in iron overload and accumulation in various vital organs, contributing to iron toxicity.
- Toxic accumulations of iron in vital organs can compromise the function of these organs, resulting in multiple organ failure. Patients can present with findings such as, hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver failure, hepatocellular carcinoma, arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, diabetes, neuropathy, diffuse arthritis, cognitive deficits, and seizures.
- Ferralet intake must be avoided in individuals with anemias, not associated with iron deficiency. Deficiencies of vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and folic acid, despite having their individual pathologies, can present with a basic finding of anemia. These individuals could be having a normal iron content, despite presenting with anemia. Administering Ferralet in these individuals, to offset anemic symptoms, does not fix the problem. But, it can result in toxicity with iron overload and so, must be avoided. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of deficiencies with vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and folic acid, if any, for appropriate treatment measures to be considered.
