Icar

Icar

Generic Name: carbonyl iron [ car-BAH-nill-I-ern ]
Other Brand Names of carbonyl iron include: Feosol Caplet, Icar, Iron Chews, Wee Care
Drug Class: Iron products

What is Icar?

Icar contains carbonyl iron, a type of iron supplement used to restore or maintain healthy iron levels in the body. Iron is essential for producing haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen. A deficiency in iron can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms of anaemia.

Icar provides a form of iron that is generally gentle on the stomach and absorbed gradually, helping reduce gastrointestinal side effects compared to other iron salts.

Uses

Icar is used to:

• Treat iron deficiency anaemia (a condition where the body doesn’t have enough iron to produce healthy red blood cells)
• Prevent iron deficiency in individuals at higher risk (e.g. pregnant women, people with restricted diets, or chronic blood loss)

It may also be used off-label or under medical supervision in specific clinical situations requiring iron supplementation.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Tooth staining (especially with liquid forms or chewables)
• Darkened stools (harmless but common)

Seek immediate medical help for signs of an allergic reaction:

• Rash
• Swelling
• Difficulty breathing

Warnings

Keep Icar out of the reach of children. Accidental overdose of iron is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6.

Do not use Icar if you:

• Are allergic to carbonyl iron
• Have iron overload conditions like haemochromatosis
• Have anaemia not caused by iron deficiency
• Have ulcers or inflammatory bowel conditions such as ulcerative colitis

Consult your doctor if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You have a milk allergy or lactose intolerance (some formulations may contain milk derivatives)
• You are unsure whether you are iron deficient

Before Taking

Tell your GP or pharmacist if you:

• Have gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., ulcers, Crohn’s disease)
• Are taking medications that may interact with iron
• Are already taking multivitamins or supplements

This medicine is not suitable for children under 12 unless advised by a doctor.

What to Avoid

• Avoid taking Icar with milk, tea, coffee, or calcium-rich foods, as they may reduce absorption
• Limit alcohol consumption while on iron therapy
• Do not exceed 6 months of use unless advised by your doctor

Interactions

Avoid taking Icar within 2 hours of:

• Antacids
• Antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, tetracycline)
• Acid-reducing drugs (e.g., ranitidine, cimetidine)

These may interfere with iron absorption.

Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, including over-the-counter and herbal

Dosage

Take Icar exactly as directed. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

• May be taken with food to reduce stomach irritation
• Chewable tablets must be chewed fully before swallowing
• The liquid form should be shaken well before measuring with a proper dosing device

If you miss a dose: take it as soon as possible. Skip it if it’s nearly time for your next dose; do not double up.

If you overdose, seek emergency help. Iron overdose can be fatal, especially in children.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Icar used for?

It’s used to treat and prevent iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia.

2. Is Icar suitable during pregnancy?

Yes, but always under medical supervision—iron needs are higher in pregnancy.

3. Can children take Icar?

Only if prescribed by a doctor. It’s not suitable for children under 12 without advice.

4. Why do stools turn black?

This is a harmless effect of iron supplementation.

5. How long should I take Icar?

Only as long as directed. Don’t use it beyond 6 months unless your GP recommends it.