Ferrous lactate

Product Details

CasNo： 5905-52-2

MF： C6H10FeO6

Appearance： powder

Delivery Time： 15 days

Packing： 25kg/bag

Purity： 99%

Product Details of Ferrous Lactate​

1. Basic Information​

1.1 Chemical Formula​

The chemical formula of ferrous lactate is typically presented as ​C6​H10​FeO6​⋅3H2​O for the trihydrate form, which is a common appearance in the market. This formula indicates the combination of lactate anions (​C3​H5​O3−​) with ferrous ions (​Fe2+) and three water molecules. The structure reflects the chelation of iron within the lactate complex, which plays a crucial role in its stability and bioavailability.​

1.2 Molecular Weight​

Calculating based on the formula ​C6​H10​FeO6​⋅3H2​O , the molecular weight of ferrous lactate trihydrate is approximately 288.04 g/mol. This value is derived from the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms in the formula. The accurate molecular weight is essential for precise dosage calculations in various applications, whether in pharmaceutical formulations or food fortification.​

1.3 Physical Properties​

Ferrous lactate commonly appears as a greenish - white powder or crystals. The left - handed enantiomer usually exists in the form of a dihydrate, while the racemic mixture is often in the trihydrate form. It has limited solubility in water, with a solubility profile that allows for slow but effective release of iron ions in aqueous environments. It is insoluble in ethanol, which restricts its use in alcohol - based products but makes it suitable for water - based applications such as oral liquid formulations and food fortification in aqueous matrices. The pH of a 1:50 aqueous solution of ferrous lactate ranges between 5 and 6, which is relatively mild and helps to maintain its stability in solution without causing significant pH - related issues in applications.​

2. Preparation Specifications​

2.1 Tablets​

• Dosage Forms: Ferrous lactate tablets are available in two main strengths. One contains 0.1 grams of iron (calculated based on ferrous lactate content), and the other has 0.15 grams of iron per tablet. These tablets are usually coated to improve palatability and protect the active ingredient from degradation during storage. The coating may also affect the dissolution rate of the tablet, ensuring a controlled release of ferrous lactate in the gastrointestinal tract.​

• Usage: For adults, the recommended dosage is typically 2 tablets taken orally, three times a day. It is advisable to take these tablets after meals to reduce potential gastrointestinal discomfort.​

2.2 Capsules​

• Dosage Forms: Ferrous lactate capsules are filled with a powder or granular form of the active ingredient. Each capsule usually contains 0.15 grams of ferrous lactate. Capsules offer the advantage of easy swallowing and can protect the ferrous lactate from moisture and air, enhancing its stability during storage.​

• Usage: Adults are generally advised to take 1 - 2 capsules orally, three times a day, preferably after meals to minimize stomach irritation.​

2.3 Oral Liquids​

• Dosage Forms: Oral liquid formulations of ferrous lactate come in concentrations such as 0.1 grams of ferrous lactate per 10 milliliters. These liquids are often flavored to improve taste, making them more suitable for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, such as children or the elderly.​

• Usage: The recommended adult dosage is 10 - 20 milliliters taken orally, three times a day. Post - meal administration is recommended to reduce the likelihood of adverse gastrointestinal effects.​

2.4 Syrups​

• Dosage Forms: Ferrous lactate syrups are thick, viscous liquids. For example, a common formulation contains 0.9 grams of ferrous lactate in 60 milliliters or 0.1 grams in 10 milliliters. Syrups are sweetened and may contain additional flavorings to mask the metallic taste often associated with iron - containing compounds.​

• Usage: Adults are usually instructed to take 20 milliliters of the syrup orally, three times a day. After taking the syrup, it is recommended to rinse the mouth to prevent potential staining of the teeth due to the iron content.​

3. Pharmacological Action​

Iron is an essential element for the human body. It is a fundamental component of hemoglobin, which is responsible for oxygen transport in red blood cells. Hemoglobin binds to oxygen in the lungs and releases it to tissues throughout the body. Iron is also a key component of myoglobin, which stores oxygen in muscle cells, and is involved in the function of various enzymes, such as cytochromes in the electron transport chain, which are crucial for energy production.​

Ferrous lactate has a relatively high absorption rate compared to some other iron supplements. In the acidic environment of the stomach, ferrous lactate dissociates into ferrous ions (​Fe2+) and lactate ions (​C3​H5​O3−​). The ferrous ions are then absorbed through the intestinal mucosa, mainly in the duodenum and upper jejunum. The presence of lactate may enhance iron absorption by forming a soluble complex with iron, protecting it from oxidation to the less - absorbable ferric form (​

Fe3+

) and facilitating its transport across the intestinal epithelium.​

4. Indications​

The primary indication for ferrous lactate is the treatment of iron - deficiency anemia. Iron - deficiency anemia occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce an adequate amount of hemoglobin. This can be due to various factors, such as poor dietary intake of iron - rich foods, increased iron requirements (e.g., during pregnancy, lactation, or rapid growth in children), chronic blood loss (e.g., from menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding), or malabsorption disorders.​

Symptoms of iron - deficiency anemia include fatigue, weakness, pallor (pale skin), shortness of breath, dizziness, and poor concentration. By supplementing with ferrous lactate, the body can increase its iron stores, allowing for the production of sufficient hemoglobin and alleviating the symptoms of anemia.​

5. Application Areas​

5.1 Food Industry​

• Nutritional Fortification: Ferrous lactate is widely used as a nutritional fortifier in the food industry. It can be added to a variety of food products to increase their iron content. For example, it is added to dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese to enhance their nutritional value. In the case of milk, the addition of ferrous lactate can help meet the iron needs of consumers, especially those who may not consume enough iron - rich foods in their diet.​

• Bakery Products: It is also used in bread, biscuits, and other baked goods. When added to bread dough, ferrous lactate can be evenly distributed during the mixing process, and the baking process does not significantly degrade its iron content. This provides a convenient way for consumers to increase their iron intake while enjoying their regular baked goods.​

• Infant Foods: Given the importance of iron for the growth and development of infants, ferrous lactate is an important ingredient in infant formula, baby cereals, and other infant foods. Iron - fortified infant foods help prevent iron - deficiency anemia in infants, especially those who are not breastfed or are weaning from breast milk.​

5.2 Pharmaceutical Industry​

• Medication for Anemia: In the pharmaceutical industry, ferrous lactate is the main ingredient in many medications used to treat iron - deficiency anemia. As mentioned earlier, tablets, capsules, oral liquids, and syrups containing ferrous lactate are commonly prescribed by doctors. These medications are formulated to provide a precise dosage of iron to patients, allowing for effective treatment of anemia.​

• Multivitamin and Mineral Supplements: Ferrous lactate is also included in many multivitamin and mineral supplements. These supplements are designed to provide a combination of essential vitamins and minerals to individuals who may have dietary deficiencies or increased nutrient requirements. The inclusion of ferrous lactate in these supplements helps ensure that consumers receive an adequate amount of iron along with other important nutrients.​

6. Adverse Reactions​

6.1 Gastrointestinal Discomfort​

Common gastrointestinal adverse reactions associated with ferrous lactate include nausea, vomiting, and upper abdominal pain. These symptoms occur because iron can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines. Nausea and vomiting may be more pronounced in individuals who are sensitive to iron or when the supplement is taken on an empty stomach. The iron can also cause constipation by reducing intestinal motility. Additionally, the iron in ferrous lactate is not fully absorbed by the body, and the unabsorbed iron is oxidized in the intestine, resulting in black - colored stools. This change in stool color can be alarming to patients but is a normal side - effect of iron supplementation.​

6.2 Allergic Reactions​

Although rare, some individuals may be allergic to ferrous lactate or other components in the formulation. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, and hives to more severe reactions like swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis. If a patient experiences any of these symptoms after taking ferrous lactate, they should seek immediate medical attention.​

7. Contraindications​

7.1 Severe Liver and Kidney Dysfunction​

Patients with severe liver and kidney impairment, especially those with untreated urinary tract infections, should not use ferrous lactate. The liver and kidneys play important roles in the metabolism and excretion of iron. In patients with liver or kidney disease, the normal regulation of iron metabolism may be disrupted, leading to iron overload. Additionally, in the case of urinary tract infections, the presence of iron in the body can potentially promote the growth of bacteria, worsening the infection.​

7.2 Iron Overload Conditions​

Individuals with iron - overload conditions such as hemochromatosis or hemosiderosis should avoid ferrous lactate. Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron from the diet, leading to iron accumulation in various organs, which can cause damage to the liver, heart, pancreas, and other organs. Hemosiderosis is a condition characterized by the abnormal deposition of iron - containing pigment (hemosiderin) in tissues. In both cases, further iron supplementation can exacerbate the iron - overload situation and worsen the associated health problems.​

7.3 Non - Iron - Deficiency Anemias​

Patients with non - iron - deficiency anemias, such as thalassemia, should not use ferrous lactate. Thalassemia is a group of genetic blood disorders characterized by abnormal hemoglobin production. In thalassemia, the problem is not related to iron deficiency, and iron supplementation can be harmful as it can lead to iron overload in the body.​

8. Storage Method​

Ferrous lactate should be stored in a cool, dark place, with the temperature not exceeding 20℃. It should be kept in a tightly sealed container to protect it from light, moisture, and air. Exposure to light can cause oxidation of the ferrous ions to ferric ions, reducing the effectiveness of the product. Moisture can also lead to the degradation of ferrous lactate, affecting its stability and solubility. By storing it properly, the shelf - life of ferrous lactate products can be extended, ensuring that they remain effective for the recommended period.​

9. Shelf - Life​

Under proper storage conditions, ferrous lactate products typically have a shelf - life of 24 months. However, this may vary depending on the specific formulation and packaging. For example, products in air - tight, light - resistant packaging may have a longer shelf - life compared to those in less protective packaging. It is important to check the expiration date on the product label before use to ensure its quality and effectiveness.​

10. Execution Standards​

• Tablets: Ferrous lactate tablets are required to comply with the national drug standard WS1 - (X - 418) - 2004Z issued by the National Medical Products Administration of China. This standard covers aspects such as the quality of the active ingredient, the dissolution rate of the tablet, the content uniformity of iron, and the presence of impurities.​

• Capsules: Ferrous lactate capsules must meet the requirements of the national drug standard WS1 - (X - 101) - 2003Z. This standard regulates the quality of the capsule shell, the filling amount of ferrous lactate powder, and the stability of the product during storage.​

• Syrups: Ferrous lactate syrups are subject to the national drug standard WS1 - (X - 139) - 2005Z. This standard controls the quality of the syrup in terms of its iron content, sweetness, viscosity, and microbial contamination, ensuring that the syrup is safe and effective for use.​