Ferrous Fumarate - availability according to a pharmacist ...

I popped into a Lloyds pharmacy (attached to a Surgery) this morning, asked for some Ferrous Fumarate and the Pharmacist told me that it would not be available until the end of June due to manufacturing difficulties. He claimed that there was only one manufacturer.

I really don't know what to do, apparently the other types of iron are more expensive than the £4.10 for a 28 day supply that I've been buying.

[Clutter]

C-g, have you asked whether Ferrous Sulphate is available? I think it is harder on the gut than Fumarate but you may tolerate it if you increase your vitC with each dose.

[Hidden in reply to Clutter]

Clutter - I mentioned to the Pharmacist that I'm concerned about changing to another type as I don't want stomach issues, he agreed that others could well affect my stomach. I already take it with a decent amount of vit C so couldn't increase.

I just don't want to spend money trying out other types when they could affect my stomach. Sorry, just being a bit pathetic here!!

[Clutter in reply to Hidden]

C-g, it's not pathetic to be wary of other types which may upset you. I hope you find FF in another pharmacy or online.

[Hidden in reply to Clutter]

Thank you Clutter.

[Polina44]

I had same problem in Lloyds but a local pharmacy had loads so I think the problem is just them!

[Hidden in reply to Polina44]

Thanks Polina, will try some others.

[Barb1949]

It is not just a problem with Lloyds. I posted about this problem a few weeks ago. There is a problem with manufacturer and stores are running out. I am lucky as my pharmacist found out early and ordered plenty of stock in for her regular customers with prescriptions. It really will be a case of try other pharmacies or look online and see if there is any available there.

Good luck, I cannot tolerate Ferrous Suphate either.

Barb

[Jackie]

HI This is true. I have had to change to ferrous sulphate with no side affects.

Jackie

[Margo]

Please excuse my ignorance cinnamon_girl, what is the difference between fumarate and sulphate? I was taking one sachet every other day of Spatone (sulphate) recommended by Dr.P. In fact I am now taking one sachet a day, not sure if I am doing the right thing for myself.