Description:

Polyfer Forte Syrup 50ml by MGP (often marketed under M&G Pharmaceuticals or similar in Ghana) is a fortified multivitamin and iron-containing syrup supplement. It is used to treat or prevent iron-deficiency anaemia, megaloblastic anaemias due to folic acid deficiency, nutritional anaemias from poor diet or illness, and vitamin deficiencies (especially B-vitamins). It supports red blood cell production, energy levels, and overall nutritional health, commonly recommended during pregnancy, lactation, growth periods, or recovery from blood loss/illness.

Prescription: Over-the-counter (OTC). No prescription required; widely available in Ghanaian pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, MyMutti, BeyBee Pharmacy) and chemical shops.

Therapeutic Category:

Hematinic / Multivitamin with iron / Nutritional supplement (for anaemia treatment/prevention and vitamin/mineral deficiency support).

Active Ingredients/Composition: Typical per dose (based on Ghana listings and FDA Ghana-related sources; exact amounts vary—confirm on label):

• Iron (as Iron(III) Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex equivalent to elemental iron, e.g., ~5-15 mg or higher per dose; some variants list 100 mg complex).
• Folic Acid BP (e.g., 0.5-1 mg or 1 mg).
• Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin; e.g., 1-5 mcg or 15 mcg).
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine; e.g., 3 mg in some fortified versions).
• Possibly other B-vitamins or supportive elements. Syrup base with flavorings/sweeteners for palatability (often better tolerated than ferrous sulfate forms).

Vitamins: Yes – Folic acid (Vitamin B9), Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine); may include additional B-vitamins in “Forte” fortified variants.

Minerals: Yes – Iron (primary, from Iron(III) Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex for improved absorption and GI tolerance).

Variant: 50 ml syrup bottle (smaller paediatric or trial size; “Forte” indicates enhanced/multivitamin-fortified version; similar products in 150 ml or other volumes).

Consume Type:

Oral (liquid syrup; measured with spoon/cup; shake well before use).

Directions/Usage: Adults: Usually 5-10 ml (1-2 teaspoons) once or twice daily after meals. Children: 2.5-5 ml once or twice daily (age/weight-based; e.g., lower for younger children). Take after food to minimize stomach upset. Use as supplement for anaemia prevention/treatment or nutritional support; duration weeks to months based on need (e.g., pregnancy or deficiency correction). Follow label or doctor’s/pharmacist’s instructions; pair with vitamin C-rich foods for better iron absorption.

Common Side Effects:

• Dark/black stools (harmless from iron)
• Mild GI upset: Nausea, constipation, stomach cramps, diarrhoea
• Metallic taste
• Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, itching), teeth staining if not rinsed Iron polymaltose complex is generally well-tolerated with lower GI irritation than ferrous sulfate.

Package Type:

Plastic bottle of 50 ml (with measuring spoon/cup; child-resistant cap; often amber or clear with label).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 30°C), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Do not exceed recommended dose (risk of iron overload/toxicity).
• Not suitable for iron overload disorders (e.g., hemochromatosis) without medical advice.
• Consult a doctor before use in pregnancy (beneficial for anaemia prevention), breastfeeding, young children, or if anaemia symptoms persist (requires blood tests for diagnosis).
• Iron overdose is dangerous in children—store securely.
• May interact with antibiotics or antacids (space doses).
• Seek medical help for persistent symptoms or overdose signs (e.g., severe vomiting, abdominal pain).

Product Substitutes: Other iron + folic acid + B-vitamin syrups in Ghana: Durol Tonic (Dannex), Astyfer Syrup, Chemiron, Feroglobin Liquid, Haemovit, or generics like iron polymaltose/fumarate + folic acid + B12 syrups (e.g., from Kinapharma, Luex, or Entrance). Consult a pharmacist for equivalents based on needs (e.g., pregnancy anaemia or general supplementation).

Manufacturer/Marketer:

M&G Pharmaceuticals Limited (MGP; Ghana-based pharmaceutical company, one of the recognized local manufacturers since the 1990s, producing or marketing Polyfer range).

Country of Origin:

Ghana (manufactured locally by M&G Pharmaceuticals; some components may be imported, but product is Ghana-origin per FDA Ghana and pharmacy sources).