Slow Release Iron is a type of iron. You normally get iron from the foods you eat. In the body, iron helps your blood carry oxygen to tissues and organs and helps your muscle cells store oxygen.

Slow Release Iron is used to treat iron deficiency.

Slow Release Iron may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

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

You may need to follow a special diet. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods you should eat or avoid.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Slow Release Iron is safe to use if you have ever had:

• iron overload syndrome;

• a red blood cell disorder such as thalassemia; or

• a condition for which you receive regular blood transfusions.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give Slow Release Iron to a child without medical advice.

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Get emergency medical help if a child has accidentally swallowed a tablet. An overdose of iron can be fatal to a young child.

Overdose symptoms may include severe vomiting, coughing up blood, bloody diarrhea, urinating less, thirst, dry skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, or fainting.

Avoid taking other iron supplements. Do not take any vitamin or mineral supplements without asking a doctor or pharmacist.

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

Slow Release Iron may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach pain or vomiting;

• cough with bloody mucus or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

• fever; or

• bloody or tarry stools.

Common side effects of Slow Release Iron may include:

• diarrhea, constipation;

• nausea, stomach pain;

• green-colored stools; or

• loss of appetite.

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.

Take your Slow Release Iron dose 2 to 6 hours before or after taking any of the following:

• an antacid;

• an antibiotic; or

• a laxative.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Slow Release Iron, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.