Ferrous Sulfate (Iron) Pediatric Supplementation
Iron supplementation dosing for iron deficiency anemia and prevention in children.
Weight in kilograms
Age in months
Reason for supplementation
⚠️ Warnings & Contraindications
- FATAL in overdose - keep ALL iron preparations locked away from children
- Overdose symptoms: vomiting, abdominal pain, GI bleeding, shock, metabolic acidosis
- Black stools are normal and expected
- GI upset, constipation, nausea common - give with food if needed
- Absorption decreased by calcium, antacids, thyroxine, and some antibiotics
- Liquid iron stains teeth - give through straw or place dropper at back of cheek
ℹ️ Clinical Notes
Liquid formulations vary widely in concentration. Common liquid: 15 mg elemental iron per 1 mL (as ferrous sulfate). Ferrous gluconate has 12% elemental iron; ferrous fumarate has 33%. Recheck hemoglobin in 8-12 weeks.
References
- AAP Iron Deficiency Anemia Guidelines - AAP/Pediatrics (2010)
- Iron supplementation in children - WHO/CDC (2024)
Medical Disclaimer
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