Ferrous gluconate (Fergon)

Alternative names

Ferrous sulfate (Feosol, Slow Fe); Iron overdose; Ferrous fumarate (Femiron, Feostat)

Definition

Poisoning from an overdose of iron.

Poisonous Ingredient

• iron
  

Where Found
iron supplements:

• ferrous sulfate (Feosol, Slow Fe)
  
• ferrous gluconate (Fergon)
  
• ferrous fumarate (Femiron, Feostat)
  
• mineral supplements
  
• vitamin/mineral supplements
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  o dehydration
  o low blood sugar
  o accumulation of fluids in the lungs
  o fever
  
• skin
  o bluish colored lips and fingernails
  o pallor
  
• gastrointestinal
  o vomiting blood
  o diarrhea
  o tarry stools
  o nausea
  o scarring of stomach and bowels in serious cases
  o metallic taste
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o low blood pressure
  o fast and weak pulse
  o flushing
  
• nervous system
  o drowsiness
  o lack of desire to do anything
  o dizziness
  o headache
  o chills
  o shock
  o coma (may occur within 1/2 to 1 hour after ingestion)
  

Note: Symptoms may clear in a few hours, then return after 24 hours or more.

Home Treatment

Contact Poison Control for appropriate treatment.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  
• the time it was swallowed
  
• the amount swallowed
  
• if the medication was prescribed for the patient
  

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the person to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.