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Inhibitory effect of various iron salts on the absorption of tetracycline in man

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Summary

The inhibitory effect of various iron salts, all containing 40 mg elemental iron, on the absorption of tetracycline (500 mg) administered simultaneously has been compared in a double-blind cross-over study in 6 healthy human volunteers. On the basis of changes in peak serum tetracycline concentration, area under individual serum tetracycline concentration-time curves and urinary excretion of tetracycline, the following order of inhibition of tetracycline absorption was found: ferrous sulphate > ferrous fumarate, ferrous succinate, ferrous gluconate > ferrous tartrate > ferric sodium edetate. Thus, in addition to different pharmaceutical properties of iron tablets or capsules, the type of iron salt used may significantly influence the absorption of simultaneously ingested tetracycline.

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Neuvonen, P.J., Turakka, H. Inhibitory effect of various iron salts on the absorption of tetracycline in man. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 7, 357–360 (1974). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00558206

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00558206

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