Ferrous Gluconate

Ferrous gluconate is a type of iron supplement used primarily to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells due to insufficient iron in the body. It is the iron(II) salt of gluconic acid and provides elemental iron that is absorbed and used by the body to produce hemoglobin and myoglobin, which carry and store oxygen in blood and muscles respectively.

Appearance: White crystalline solid or powder, odorless

Solubility: Highly soluble in water 

Melting Point: 1124 °C

The nutritional information of Ferrous Gluconate primarily centers around its iron content and role in addressing iron deficiency:

• Ferrous gluconate contains approximately 12% elemental iron by weight.

• A typical tablet with 324 mg of ferrous gluconate provides about 38 mg of elemental iron, which is around 208-211% of the U.S. recommended daily intake (RDI) for iron for adults and children over 4 years old.

• It provides 0 calories and contains no fats, carbohydrates, or protein, serving solely as an iron supplement rather than a source of macronutrients.

• Iron from ferrous gluconate is crucial for hemoglobin and myoglobin production, enabling oxygen transport and storage in the body.

• Daily iron intake recommendations vary by age, sex, and condition (e.g., pregnancy), generally ranging from 8 mg to 27 mg elemental iron per day.

• It is commonly used to prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia and must be taken according to dosage guidelines to avoid gastrointestinal side effects.

• Certain foods and beverages (e.g., tea, coffee, dairy, soy) may reduce iron absorption when taken simultaneously with ferrous gluconate supplements.

The benefits of Ferrous Gluconate primarily relate to its role as an iron supplement for managing and preventing iron deficiency anemia. Key benefits include:

• Effective treatment of iron deficiency anemia: Ferrous gluconate replenishes iron stores in the body, supporting the production of healthy red blood cells, hemoglobin, and myoglobin to improve oxygen transport and reduce anemia symptoms like fatigue and weakness.

• High bioavailability: It has relatively better absorption compared to some other iron forms, making it efficient even for individuals with impaired iron absorption.

• Fewer gastrointestinal side effects: Compared to ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate often causes less constipation, nausea, and stomach upset, improving patient tolerance and compliance.

• Supports increased iron needs: It is commonly prescribed during pregnancy to meet higher iron demands and prevent anemia in mothers and developing fetuses.

• Versatile administration: Available in tablets, capsules, and liquids, ferrous gluconate can be adapted to patient needs, including children or those who have difficulty swallowing pills.

• Useful in chronic disease management: Helps offset iron deficiency caused by chronic conditions that impair iron absorption or cause blood loss.