Ferrex is the brand name for an iron supplement. Iron is an essential mineral that's important for making hemoglobin, a protein that red blood cells need to transport blood. Iron supplementation can be needed for people suffering from anemia or for women who are menstruating. Although it's generally safe, Ferrex can cause certain side effects.
Gastrointestinal
Drugs.com says the most common side effects that Ferrex can cause affect the gastrointestinal tract. Ferrex use can result in nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Other common side effects include flatulence and heartburn. Ferrex can also affect a patient's bowel movements, leading to diarrhea or constipation. Any Ferrex-related constipation can be treated using between 100mg and 200mg of docusate sodium each day, as well by increasing fluid consumption. The use of iron supplements can also cause patients to experience an unusual metallic taste in their mouths.
Allergic
Some patients are allergic to Ferrex supplements; allergies to Ferrex are potentially serious and can require immediate medical attention. Some of the earliest signs of an allergic reaction include a rash or hives, Drugstore.com says. As the reaction progresses, patients may develop swelling of parts of the face, including the lips and tongue, or of the hands and feet. Anaphylaxis, the most severe form of an allergic reaction, causes swelling of the throat, making breathing and swallowing difficult. This swelling can also lead to tightness of the chest or hoarseness.
Constitutional
Some of the side effects associated with Ferrex use affect the whole body. They include a fever, chills and generalized flushing or reddening of the skin. Patients may also experience a general feeling of malaise or muscle weakness as a result of using Ferrex. Other symptoms include a rapid heart rate, fainting or dizziness.
Overdose
One of the most serious risks of taking Ferrex is the chance of an iron overdose. Many of the early signs of an iron overdose result in massive gastrointestinal bleeding, so patients may experience vomiting or diarrhea that is streaked with blood. A sudden fever or sharp stomach cramping are other early signs of a Ferrex overdose. Later symptoms can include a weak and fast heartbeat, clammy skin and blue lips or fingernails, which is a sign of inadequate oxygen flow. Patients may also develop seizures as a result of an iron overdose.
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