Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) Side Effects

Understanding the complexities and potential side effects of a medication like Accrufer is paramount in navigating its usage effectively. Accrufer, a vital treatment for managing iron deficiencies, can bring about a spectrum of side effects across various body systems, affecting individuals differently. From commonly observed effects like nausea, diarrhea, or changes in taste perception, to more serious outcomes including cardiovascular complications or severe allergic reactions, the range of potential side effects demands a comprehensive understanding.

Uncovering rare side effects or symptoms of overdose of Accrufer, exploring its long-term impacts, and evaluating how this drug affects different age groups : pregnancy, breastfeeding, pediatric, or geriatric populations, It is crucial for informed and safe medication use.

Common Side Effects

Navigating the realm of medications such as Accrufer involves a comprehensive understanding of its common side effects, which can manifest in various individuals. As with any pharmaceutical treatment, Accrufer may bring about a range of commonly experienced effects that individuals might encounter during its usage. These effects often include : 

• Stomach pain, bloating, gas, nausea, vomiting
• Diarrhea, constipation
• Changes in the color of your bowel movements

Serious Side Effects

Serious Side Effects – Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

High iron levels

• Fatigue
• Weakness 
• Weight loss 
• Irregular heartbeat 
• Stomach pain 
• Joint pain

Iron Overdose in children

• Stomach pain 
• Seizures
•  Dehydration 
• Liver problems 
• Low blood pressure 
• Low body temperature 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting (including vomiting blood) 
• Diarrhea 
• Dark-colored stools 
• Fast heart rate 
• High blood sugar
•  Sleepiness
•  Brain damage
•  Coma

Symptoms of Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) Overdose

Understanding the symptoms of an Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) overdose is paramount in ensuring the safe and effective use of this drug. 

• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Drowsiness
• Muscle tremors
• Nausea
• Rapid, deep breathing
• Restlessness
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Vomiting

Allergic Reactions

Get emergency medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction: Hives Difficult breathing Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Other Side Effects of Accrufer (Ferric Maltol)

Less Common

• Bloated
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines
• Full feeling
• Nausea
• Passing gas
• Pressure in the stomach
• Stomach pain, discomfort, or soreness
• Swelling of the stomach area
• Vomiting

Categorize the Side Effects of Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) Based on Various Body Systems

General

Abdominal pain, bloating, difficulty passing stools, and abdominal discomfort or swelling, along with diarrhea, generally tend to be of mild to moderate intensity.

Gastrointestinal

• Abdominal pain (1% to 10%)
• Flatulence (1% to 10%)
• Constipation (1% to 10%)
•  Abdominal discomfort (1% to 10%)
•  Diarrhea (1% to 10%)
•  Nausea (1% to 10%)
•  Faeces discolored (1% to 10%)
•  Vomiting Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (0.1% to 1%)

Dermatologic

• Acne (0.1% to 1%)
• Erythema (0.1% to 1%)

Hepatic

• Gamma-glutamyltransferase increased (0.1% to 1%)

Other

• Blood alkaline phosphatase increased (0.1% to 1%)

Metabolic

• Thirst (0.1% to 1%)

Musculoskeletal

• Joint stiffness (0.1% to 1%)
• Pain in extremity (0.1% to 1%)

Nervous system

• Headache (0.1% to 1%)

Endocrine

• Blood thyroid stimulating hormone increased (0.1% to 1%)

Long Term Effects of Accrufer (Ferric Maltol)

Accrufer (ferric maltol) is generally prescribed for a minimum duration of 3 months. However, the specific duration of Accrufer (ferric maltol) usage will be determined based on your individual response to the treatment. Your healthcare provider will advise you to continue using Accrufer (ferric maltol) until your ferritin levels normalize and as long as you are not experiencing significant side effects.

The long-term effects of excess iron on human health primarily involve its accumulation in major organs, predominantly the liver. Over the span of years, the build-up of stored iron can result in substantial damage, potentially leading to organ failure. Additionally, this excess iron accumulation may contribute to the development of persistent conditions like cirrhosis, diabetes, and heart failure.

Side Effects of Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Oral ferric or ferrous compounds administered in animal studies during organogenesis at doses 13 to 32 times higher than the recommended human dose did not result in any negative developmental outcomes. There is a risk of spontaneous abortion, gestational diabetes, and fetal malformation associated with an excessive intake of iron during pregnancy. Not addressing iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy is linked to adverse outcomes including postpartum anemia, preterm delivery, and low birth weight.

If there is a clinical necessity for use, it’s important to note that there is a lack of available data regarding the excretion of this drug into human or animal milk. Consequently, there is insufficient information about its presence in human milk, its impact on breastfed infants, or its effect on milk production. As the drug is not systematically available, the likelihood of its transfer into human milk appears low. There have been no observed effects of oral ferric iron on newborns or infants of treated patients. 

Side Effects of Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) in Pediatric (Children)

Iron supplements can potentially lead to stomach issues, including symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramps.

Side Effects of Accrufer (Ferric Maltol) in Geriatric Age (Elderly individuals)

Elderly individuals might experience iron deficiency due to insufficient intake or absorption of iron. In the absence of blood loss, it can take several years for anemia to develop. As people age, their ability to absorb iron might diminish compared to younger adults, possibly necessitating a higher iron dosage. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if an iron supplement is necessary and to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.