Preneed-CI: Iron, Folic Acid, and Zinc Combined Preparation

Preneed-CI is a timed-release capsule containing Carbonyl Iron, Folic Acid, and Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate. It is indicated for the treatment and prophylaxis of iron, folic acid, and zinc deficiencies, particularly during pregnancy and lactation. It belongs to the therapeutic class of Iron, Vitamin & Mineral Combined preparations.

Composition

Each capsule contains:

• Elemental iron: 50 mg (As carbonyl iron INN) - Carbonyl Iron has high bioavailability and low toxicity, making it a safer and more effective choice for iron supplementation, with not less than 98% iron content.
• Folic acid BP: 500 microgram
• Zinc sulphate monohydrate USP: 61.80 mg (equivalent to 22.50 mg zinc)

How Preneed-CI Works (Pharmacology)

This combined preparation works by:

• Carbonyl Iron: Provides elemental iron, which is essential for hemoglobin formation and oxygen transport, directly addressing iron deficiency. Its high iron content and specific structure contribute to its safety profile.
• Folic Acid: A B vitamin crucial for DNA synthesis and cell growth, vital for red blood cell formation and preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy.
• Zinc Sulphate Monohydrate: Provides zinc, an essential trace element involved in numerous enzymatic reactions, immune function, and cell division, which is important for overall health and fetal development.

Key Indications & Benefits

Preneed-CI is indicated for:

• Treatment and prophylaxis of Iron deficiency.
• Treatment and prophylaxis of Folic Acid deficiency.
• Treatment and prophylaxis of Zinc deficiency.
• Especially during pregnancy and lactation, periods of increased nutritional demands.

Dosage & Administration

• Adult: One capsule daily before food, or as directed by the physician.
• Always consult a registered physician for medication use.

Important Considerations & Warnings

It is crucial to discuss your full medical history with your doctor before taking Preneed-CI.

Contraindications:

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to any of its components.
• Patients with iron overload states.

Side Effects:

• Common: Gastrointestinal irritations such as nausea, anorexia, vomiting, discomfort, constipation, and diarrhea may occur. Patients may notice dark stools. Carbonyl Iron pellets are incorporated into the capsules to help reduce these gastrointestinal irritations.
• Rarely: Allergic reactions.

Pregnancy & Lactation:

• First Trimester of Pregnancy: Use of any drug during the first trimester should be avoided if possible. Administration of iron during the first trimester requires definite evidence of iron deficiency.
• Remainder of Pregnancy: Prophylaxis of iron deficiency, especially where an inadequate diet calls for supplementary zinc and folic acid, is justified during the remainder of pregnancy.

Precautions & Warnings:

• Iron Overload States: Special care should be taken in patients with iron overload states, such as hemochromatosis, hemolytic anemia, or red blood cell aplasia.
• Anemia Investigation: Failure to respond to treatment requires further investigations to rule out other causes of anemia.
• Renal Failure: In patients with renal failure, there may be a risk of zinc accumulation.

Drug Interactions:

• Carbonyl Iron decreases the absorption of:
  • Tetracycline antibiotics
  • Quinolone antibiotics
  • Levodopa
  • Levothyroxine
  • Methyldopa
  • Penicillamine
• Folic Acid interacts with antiepileptics: Plasma concentrations of phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone are possibly reduced.

Overdose Effects

• Symptoms of Carbonyl Iron overdose: Decreased energy, nausea, abdominal pain, tarry stool, weak, rapid pulse, fever, coma, seizures.
• In case of accidental overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C. Keep away from light and moisture. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.