Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is found in citrus fruit, tomatoes, potatoes, and leafy vegetables. Ascorbic acid is important for the skin and connective tissues, for normal chemical and hormonal production, and for the immune system.

Carbonyl iron is a form of the mineral iron. Iron is important for many functions in the body, especially for the transport of oxygen in the blood.

Fe C is a combination vitamin/mineral supplement that helps your body better absorb iron from your diet.

Fe C may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Keep this product out of reach of children. Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Swallow it whole.

For best results, take Fe C on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Fe C may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.

Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Keep this product out of reach of children. Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6. In case of accidental overdose, seek emergency medical attention or call a poison control center right away.

You should not use Fe C if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have any allergies or other medical conditions. In some cases, you may not be able to use Fe C, or you may need a dose adjustment or special precautions.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

Do not give this medication to a child without medical advice.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of iron can be fatal, especially in a child.

The first signs of an iron overdose may include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood, pale skin, and rapid heart rate. Later symptoms may include extreme weakness, numbness or cold feeling, blue lips, wheezing, gasping for breath, cough with foamy mucus, and fainting.

Avoid taking Fe C within 2 hours before or after you take other medicines, especially an antibiotic. Fe C can make it harder for your body to absorb certain medicines you take by mouth.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of Fe C may include:

• nausea, upset stomach;

• constipation; or

• diarrhea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Other drugs may interact with ascorbic acid and carbonyl iron, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.