Ferro-foil and analogs in composition, cheaper. Reviews

Ferro-foil is a Germanic medicine used to restore iron levels in the body. The drug is produced in the form of capsules, which include: ferrous sulfate, ascorbic and folic acids, and cyanocobalamin.

The listed components contribute to the replenishment of iron deficiency (by enhancing the production of and assimilation of this element), normalize the process of hematopoiesis, and also strengthen blood vessels and immunity. If necessary, you can replace the medication with analogues that are similar not only in action, but also in composition.

Domestic and imported analogues of the product

Ferro-foil and analogs in composition are prescribed by doctors with a decrease in the level of iron in the blood. Pathology is dangerous by a weakening of immunity, a delay in mental and physical development (in children) and a sharp drop in the level of oxygen in the blood.

With a strong and rapid decrease in the value of iron, a lethal outcome is not excluded. Ferro-foil and its substitutes help to stabilize the level of iron and maintain the achieved result.

By composition

Compositional analogues have an identical therapeutic effect, and are also similar not only in indications, but also contraindications and side effects. Therefore, these drugs are not prescribed by a doctor if the replacement is carried out due to intolerance of the main element, the identification of contraindications and side effects.

Compositional analogues are more often used if the original is not available for sale or a cheaper substitute is required.

Gemsineral-TD

Ferro-foil and analogs in composition restore the level of iron with the help of an iron-containing element and vitamins. Substitute Gemsineral-TD (manufacturer India) includes ferrous fumarate, folic acid and cyanocobalamin.

A distinctive feature from the original is the absence of ascorbic acid in the composition. The drug, like the original, is produced in the form of capsules. Elements of the analogue contribute to the normalization of the level of iron, which is noted approximately 1 hour after the consumption of the capsule.

The achieved effect can last for 12 hours. Additionally, the components of the analogue are involved in strengthening the immune system and restoring the state of blood vessels.

Gemsineral-TD and the original are prescribed to compensate for the lack of iron and folic acid in the following cases:

• period of gestation and lactation. During pregnancy / lactation, the body needs more iron and folic acid, which are necessary for the normal development of the fetus;
• replenishment of the value of iron in chronic bleeding. For example, heavy menstruation in women, hemorrhoids with bleeding;
• in the combined treatment of parasitic pathologies in which the parasites feed on the blood of the "host";

• passage of hardware blood purification;
• alcohol abuse;
• immune and other diseases, accompanied by impaired absorption of nutrients, including folic acid and iron;
• when losing weight in compliance with a sharp dietary restriction;
• prevention of the development of anemia with a predisposition to this pathology;
• to replenish the lack of iron, which is caused by taking medications.

Also, both medicines are used to prevent the development of anemia and folate deficiency.

Despite the similarity of the composition and indications, the drugs differ slightly in contraindications. The differences, which are listed below, are due to different concentrations of the main elements and a different combination of auxiliary components.

Differences and similarities in prohibitions
Gemsineral-TD	high platelet count in the blood; diagnosis of tumors, especially with pathologies of an oncological nature; pregnancy, first 12 weeks; refundable restriction up to 18 years; frequent blood transfusions.
Ferro-foil	Age up to 12 years
General prohibitions	severe sensitivity to the components of the capsules; increased iron in the body; anemia not caused by a deficiency in iron intake. For example, a deficiency of red blood cells caused by their rapid destruction or insufficient production; a high rate of red blood cells in the blood plasma; pathology of the digestive tract organs in severe form, including intestinal obstruction; violation of the processes of iron utilization; liver failure in acute form.

An analogue, like Ferro-foil, is allowed and recommended for use during breastfeeding and during pregnancy (2nd and 3rd trimester).

The scheme for taking Gemsineral-TD capsules and the original depends on the purpose of use and the dynamics of treatment. Therefore, the exact dosage, as well as the therapeutic course, can be prescribed strictly by the doctor.

The specialist should voice what side effects (identical for both medicines) these drugs can cause:

• a feeling of fullness in the stomach;
• pain in the digestive tract, especially if the capsule has a damaged shell;
• nausea, in rare cases vomiting was noted;
• staining the contents of the intestine in brown-black;
• constipation, less often diarrhea;
• accumulation of gas in the intestines;
• the enamel of the teeth becomes darker in color;
• a sharp decrease in appetite;

• urticaria, the appearance of watery blisters on the skin, bronchospasm and other manifestations of allergies;
• headache and nervous strain;
• an increase in the value of heart contractions;
• flushed face;
• metallic taste;
• increased sweating;
• fast fatiguability.

The listed symptoms can appear if the prescribed treatment regimen is followed.

With an increase in a single dosage or with a very long course, the patient has an increase in the listed symptoms, and may also appear life-threatening symptoms include:

• a sharp decrease in the level of pressure;
• the development of bleeding in the digestive tract. It is more often manifested in patients with pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract;
• profuse vomiting of blood;
• violation of consciousness;

• necrosis of the mucous membranes of the digestive tract;
• the appearance of seizures;
• the development of severe suffocation. It is noted in patients with severe allergic reactions;
• drop in heart rate.

The described signs can appear both immediately after taking a large number of capsules, and after 1 hour and persist up to 6 hours. After 6 hours, a decrease in symptoms is possible, but, approximately after 12-48 hours, symptoms may resume, but in a more pronounced form.

This nuance should be considered in case of poisoning. It is recommended to wash the stomach as soon as possible and call an ambulance at the same time. Qualified medical attention may be required.

Gemsineral-TD and Ferro-foil gamma are similar in terms of sale. Both products can only be purchased with a prescription.

Important. The analogue and the original should be used with caution not only in combination treatment, but also exclude from the menu products that reduce the quality of absorption of drugs.

According to indications and method of application

Ferro-foil can be replaced with drugs similar in therapeutic effect, but with a different composition of components. These analogs are convenient if replacement of the original is required due to the intolerance of the main element or when the patient detects contraindications and side effects that are provoked by an identical composition.

Aktiferrin

Ferro-foil and analogs in composition should be used only after being prescribed by the attending physician. Substitute Aktiferrin (made in Germany) is produced (unlike the original) in 3 dosage forms (drops, capsules and syrup).

The active elements (for all types) of the drug are ferrous sulfate and serine. The first component helps to increase iron, the second improves the absorption of the first element.

An analogue is prescribed by a specialist to increase the level of iron in the body in the following cases:

• a decrease in the value of iron when carrying a child, in the postpartum period, as well as when breastfeeding a baby;
• bleeding of a chronic nature;
• the presence of blood-sucking parasites in the body. Combination therapy is recommended;
• replenishment of iron deficiency in premature babies. The point is characteristic only for the analogue, since the original is not used until 12 years old;
• impaired absorption of iron due to secret insufficiency;
• pathologies accompanied by a decrease in the absorption of iron;
• diagnosis of infectious pathologies, which are accompanied by a decrease in the amount of iron in the blood;
• chronic alcohol abuse;
• weight loss when using a limited menu;
• taking "dangerous" medications that cause a decrease in the level of iron in the body;
• prevention of the development of anemia with a predisposition to this pathology.

The disadvantage of the analogue is the absence of folic acid in the composition, therefore, with a deficiency of this element, the drug is not used.

Comparison of Aktiferrin with Ferro-foil capsules for contraindications:

Characteristics of medicines according to prohibitions
Aktiferrin	Child's age up to 2 years, when using syrup. Drops are allowed to be used from birth.
Ferro-foil	There are no individual contraindications
Identical data	violation of metabolic processes, accompanied by the accumulation of iron in the body; pronounced susceptibility to drug components; rapid breakdown of red blood cells or a violation of their production; age up to 12 years (for an analogue, this restriction "applies" to capsules); excess amount of iron in the body; diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in the acute stage, including liver disease; violation of iron utilization; an increased level of red blood cells in the blood; frequent blood transfusions.

Both medicines are allowed to be used when carrying a baby and breastfeeding. The treatment regimen with Aktiferrin depends on the selected dosage form, age and severity of the pathology. That is, the course of therapy should be selected strictly by the doctor, as for the original.

Both medicines have similar side effect symptoms:

• liquefaction of stools or vice versa, the development of constipation;
• darkening of the enamel;
• soreness in the abdomen, can be caused by an exacerbation of diseases of the digestive tract or the accumulation of gases in the intestines;
• bitterness in the mouth, metallic taste and nausea. As a consequence, there is a decrease in appetite;
• headaches;
• increased contractile activity of the heart;
• feeling of fullness in the stomach;
• increased weakness;
• sore throat, chest, toothache may develop;
• various allergic symptoms;
• increased arousal, as a result of the development of insomnia;
• staining of feces in brown-black color;
• damage to brain tissue. It is an extremely rare side effect.

The listed symptoms are not the reason for discontinuation of the drug, the specialist must initially reduce the single dosage. But if the signs persist, then the funds are replaced with analogues. An overdose of Aktiferrin, like the original, is hazardous to health.

In case of poisoning, the victim manifests the following symptoms:

• dehydration due to profuse vomiting and diarrhea;
• a sharp drop in pressure;
• the development of bleeding in the digestive tract;
• acute liver failure;
• choking or stopping breathing;
• the development of coma or seizures;
• necrosis of the mucous membranes in the digestive tract;
• a sharp rise in temperature.

The listed symptoms may not appear immediately after poisoning, therefore, monitoring of the victim's condition is required for at least 2 days. Also, since an overdose "carries" a danger to the patient's life, it is recommended (in case of poisoning) to immediately call emergency help.

While "help is on the way", you should rinse the stomach and give the victim whole milk or a raw egg (these products reduce the absorption of iron). Aktiferrin is a prescription medication, like Ferro-foil.

Both medicines should be kept very far away from children., since cases of poisoning (including fatalities) are more often recorded in childhood.

Totem

French Totem substitute is a solution consisting of 3 active ingredients (gluconates: iron, copper and manganese). Ferrous gluconate is involved in replenishing the lack of iron, and copper and manganese gluconates contribute to the rapid and complete absorption of the first element.

Totem solution (like Ferro-foil) is prescribed by doctors for the following iron deficiency states:

• iron deficiency when carrying a child, as well as when feeding a baby with breast milk;
• iron deficiency caused by a "hard" diet;
• donation. The drugs allow you to quickly "raise" the level of iron after donating blood;
• iron deficiency due to chronic blood loss. For example, heavy menstruation, bleeding hemorrhoids, bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract;
• after infectious pathologies, which are accompanied by a decrease in the level of iron in the blood;
• the presence of pathologies in the patient, which are accompanied by low absorption of iron due to a lack of secretion by the gastrointestinal tract;

• to restore the iron index when diagnosing blood-sucking parasites in the body. Combination therapy is prescribed (together with drugs to destroy the parasitic infection;
• chronic alcohol abuse;
• when taking "dangerous" medications that provoke a decrease in the level of iron in the blood;
• replenishment of iron deficiency in premature babies or in infants with low birth weight. The parameter matches only the analogue;
• with frequent hardware purifications of the blood;
• prevention of the development of anemia with a patient's predisposition to this pathology.

Ferro-foil is additionally used for folic acid deficiency in the body. Contraindications to drugs (reviewed below) have slight differences.

Comparison of inhibiting factors
Totem	increased levels of manganese and copper in the body; violation of copper metabolism; the patient's age is up to 3 months. In the presence of diabetes mellitus, the solution must be used with caution.
Ferro-foil	Age limit up to 12 years
General prohibitions	hypersensitivity to components; violation of iron utilization, as a result of which the element accumulates in organs and tissues; anemia provoked by the rapid destruction of red blood cells or their insufficient production; diseases of the digestive tract in severe form, including liver failure; lead poisoning. Pathology is characterized by a shortening of the life cycle of red blood cells; increased iron in the body.

Both drugs are allowed to be used during the period of gestation, but during lactation, Totem should be used with caution, since the components of the drug penetrate into milk.

The scheme for taking Totem solution is individual for each patient, since the age and general condition of the patient should be taken into account. The conditions for receiving the original are similar.

The following are the side effects common to both medicines:

• allergy symptoms;
• violation of the color of the enamel of the teeth. The color of the teeth is restored after the end of therapy;
• violation of the stool (constipation, less often diarrhea);
• feces become brown-black;
• development of vomiting due to the unpleasant taste of metal in the mouth;
• accumulation of gas in the intestines;
• soreness in the abdomen. In the presence of pathologies in the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, their exacerbation is possible.

If side effects are detected, it is required to reduce the dosage or replace the drug. Totem overdose is as dangerous as the original.

The most dangerous symptoms of drug poisoning include:

• dehydration of the body due to profuse vomiting (vomiting may be bloody) and diarrhea;
• the development of very severe abdominal pain;
• blue lips and increased pallor of the skin;
• a decrease in the pressure indicator and the number of heartbeats;
• the development of seizures;
• severe liver dysfunction;
• the victim may fall into a coma.

The listed symptoms can appear within 2 days. Therefore, the victim must be under constant control during this period of time. Also, immediately after poisoning, it is necessary to rinse the sick stomach and immediately call an ambulance. The patient must remain in the hospital until complete recovery. Totem, like Ferro-foil, is a prescription drug.

Important. When prescribing Totems or Ferro-foil, the dosage must be strictly observed, and also use drugs in complex therapy only with the permission of a doctor.

Prices

The cost of the described analogs and the original vary by region and type of pharmacy. Below is the price range based on these parameters.

Name of drugs	The amount of product in the package	Price range (in rubles)
Ferro-foil capsules	50 capsules	565-600
Gemsineral-TD capsules	Currently, the drug is not available for sale, so its cost is not known.
Aktiferrin capsules	50 pcs.	310-360
Aktiferrin syrup	100 ml	290-340
Aktiferrin drops	30 ml	350-415
Totem solution	20 ampoules of 10 ml	470-560

Ferro-foil and its substitutes (both similar and dissimilar in composition) allow to normalize the level of iron and restore its absorption in the future (after the end of treatment). As a result, the normalization of the state persists for a long time.

The downside of the original is its overpriced and age restrictions. Therefore, if it is necessary to increase iron in childhood, suitable analogues are used.

Author: Kotlyachkova Svetlana

Video about drugs

Ferro-foil and analogues: