Accrufer is primarily classified as an iron-containing medication used for the treatment of adults with low iron stores. It is an oral medication designed to replenish iron levels in the body.
Understanding Accrufer
Accrufer is a brand name for the active pharmaceutical ingredient Ferric Maltol. This medication is specifically formulated to deliver iron to the body effectively, addressing conditions like iron deficiency where the body lacks sufficient iron. In the European Union, the same medication is marketed under the brand name Feraccru.
Here's a quick overview of its classification:
| Aspect | Classification/Description |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Accrufer (US), Feraccru (EU) |
| Active Ingredient | Ferric Maltol |
| Primary Classification | Medication / Pharmaceutical Drug |
| Therapeutic Class | Oral Iron Supplement / Iron Replacement Product |
| Mechanism of Action | Provides a source of absorbable iron to the body |
| Indication | Treatment of low iron stores in adults (e.g., iron deficiency, iron deficiency anemia) |
Therapeutic Classification and Use
As an iron-containing medication, Accrufer falls under the broader category of hematinics or antianemic preparations, specifically those used to treat iron deficiency. Unlike some other iron supplements, Ferric Maltol is a stable, non-ionic form of iron, which may contribute to its efficacy and tolerability.
Key aspects of its therapeutic role include:
- Targeted Treatment: It is prescribed for individuals diagnosed with low iron stores, a common issue that can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
- Oral Administration: Accrufer is an oral medication, making it convenient for home use compared to intravenous iron infusions.
- Iron Replenishment: Its core function is to provide the body with the necessary iron to produce red blood cells and maintain various vital bodily functions that depend on iron.
For more detailed information on its active ingredient, you can refer to the Ferric Maltol Wikipedia page.
How Accrufer Addresses Iron Deficiency
Iron is an essential mineral required for the formation of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. When iron stores are low, the body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to iron deficiency anemia. Accrufer helps to counteract this by supplying a bioavailable form of iron, allowing the body to restore its iron levels and alleviate the symptoms associated with iron deficiency.
