Ferrous Fumarate

Ferrous fumarate is an iron salt of fumaric acid, commonly used as an iron supplement to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia, which is a condition caused by low iron levels leading to reduced red blood cells or hemoglobin in the body. It appears as a reddish-orange powder and provides a bioavailable source of iron that supports the production of healthy red blood cells and oxygen transport in tissues. Ferrous fumarate is often administered orally in tablet or liquid form and is effective in replenishing iron stores, especially in cases such as pregnancy, blood loss, or dietary deficiency.

Appearance: Reddish-orange to reddish-brown powder; it may have soft lumps that leave a yellow streak when crushed

Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (approximately 0.14 g/100 mL at 25 °C), very slightly soluble in ethanol (96%)

Melting Point: 280 °C

 Ferrous fumarate is used to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia, including cases due to pregnancy, blood loss, or dietary insufficiency. Dosage depends on age, condition, and severity, with adults typically taking doses that provide 65-200 mg elemental iron per day, often in divided doses

Ferrous fumarate offers several key benefits primarily related to treating and preventing iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia:

• Restores Iron Levels and Treats Anemia: Ferrous fumarate provides a bioavailable source of iron needed for the production of hemoglobin—the protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport—helping to prevent or correct iron deficiency anemia.

• Improves Energy and Reduces Fatigue: By replenishing iron stores and increasing hemoglobin, ferrous fumarate helps restore oxygen delivery to tissues, which can significantly reduce symptoms like tiredness, weakness, and difficulty concentrating associated with iron deficiency.

• Supports Overall Vitality and Well-being: Adequate iron levels contribute to normal immune function, cognitive performance, and physical endurance, enhancing overall quality of life during and after treatment of iron deficiency.

• Better Absorption and Dosing: Ferrous fumarate contains about 33% elemental iron, a higher percentage than ferrous sulfate, allowing for potentially smaller doses or fewer tablets for the same effect. It is absorbed best when taken on an empty stomach, sometimes with vitamin C to enhance absorption.

• Used in Various Populations: Useful in a broad range of conditions including pregnancy, blood loss, dietary insufficiency, and chronic disease-related anemia, with clinical dosages tailored by healthcare providers.

• Generally Effective Within Weeks: Some symptoms of iron deficiency, such as fatigue, may improve within 1–2 weeks of supplementation, while full replenishment of iron stores typically requires several weeks to months of continued use.