Iron Albuminate

Iron albuminate, Ferrum albuminatum, is a dry powder, ochre in color, without odor or taste, containing 13-15% iron, insoluble in water. A durable preparation of iron. The official solution of iron albuminate, Liquor ferri albuminati, is prepared according to the directions of the Pharmacopoeia (VII). The solution of iron albuminate contains 0.4% iron, is transparent in transmitted light and turbid in reflected light, reddish-brown in color, has a weakly alkaline reaction, a sweetish taste, and a cinnamon odor; it should not become cloudy when boiled or when mixed with an equal volume of 90% alcohol. The solution of iron albuminate was first proposed by Friese in 1877 as an easily absorbable preparation of iron. It is stored in a dark and cool place, in well-stoppered orange glass bottles with ordinary corks. Iron albuminate is used in chlorosis, anemia, exhaustion, during convalescence, etc. It is given to children, depending on age, orally in doses of 5-30 drops, and to adults in doses of 1/2-1 teaspoonful, three times a day before meals or shortly after meals, with milk, water, or white wine.