Ferrous fumarate can correct iron-deficiency anemia based on its pharmacological effects and clinical application outcomes. Below is a detailed explanation of this issue:
1. Pharmacological Effects of Ferrous Fumarate
·Supplementing Iron: Ferrous fumarate is a form of iron supplementation. Iron is a crucial element for the synthesis of hemoglobin in red blood cells. When iron is deficient, the number of hemoglobin molecules synthesized by red blood cells decreases, leading to smaller red blood cells and a reduced oxygen-carrying capacity, which results in iron-deficiency anemia.
·Promoting Hemoglobin Synthesis: The ferrous ions in ferrous fumarate are oxidized to ferric ions by ceruloplasmin in the blood. These ferric ions then bind to transferrin in the plasma and are transported to various tissues in the body. They enter cells through receptor-mediated endocytosis, where they bind with protoporphyrin and globin in the mitochondria to form hemoglobin.
·Enhancing the Activity of Iron-Containing Enzymes: Most enzymes related to the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle contain iron or function only in the presence of iron. Therefore, supplementing with ferrous fumarate not only accelerates hemoglobin synthesis but also corrects symptoms associated with tissue iron deficiency and reduced activity of iron-containing enzymes, such as growth retardation, abnormal behavior, physical weakness, changes in mucosal tissues, and skin and nail disorders.
2. Clinical Applications of Ferrous Fumarate
·Treating Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Clinically, ferrous fumarate is primarily used to treat iron-deficiency anemia caused by various factors, such as hemorrhagic anemia and malnutrition anemia. By supplementing iron, it enhances the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin, thereby improving anemia symptoms.
·Preventing Iron Deficiency: Ferrous fumarate can also be used to prevent iron deficiency, especially during periods of increased iron demand, such as childhood development, pregnancy, and lactation.
3. Precautions for Use
·Take After Meals: It is generally recommended to take ferrous fumarate after meals to reduce gastrointestinal irritation caused by the medication.
·Avoid Concurrent Intake with Substances That Affect Iron Absorption: Beverages such as strong tea, coffee, cola, soy milk, and milk may interfere with the absorption of iron supplements, so it is advisable to avoid consuming these drinks during the treatment period.
·Regular Monitoring: Regular blood tests and serum iron level checks should be performed during treatment to monitor the effectiveness and iron levels.
·Special Populations: Pregnant and lactating women, children, the elderly, and other special populations should take ferrous fumarate under the guidance of a physician.
Ferrous fumarate effectively corrects iron-deficiency anemia through its pharmacological actions, including iron supplementation, promoting hemoglobin synthesis, and enhancing the activity of iron-containing enzymes. It is important to observe the relevant precautions during use to ensure the safety and efficacy of the medication.
