Corvite FE Tablets
WARNING: If your product has iron in it:Accidental overdose of drugs that have iron in them is a leading cause of deadly poisoning in children younger than 6 years of age. Keep away from children. If this drug is taken by accident, call a doctor or poison control center right away. @ COMMON USES: It is used to help growth and good health.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Vitamin/Mineral Supplement
Pharmacologic Class
Multivitamin with Iron
Pregnancy Category
Not formally assigned as a drug category; generally considered safe and often recommended during pregnancy when formulated appropriately (e.g., prenatal vitamins). Individual components vary (e.g., Folic Acid: A, Iron: A).
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Corvite FE is a daily supplement that provides essential vitamins and minerals, including iron. It helps ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs, especially if your diet is lacking or if you have increased needs, such as during pregnancy or if you have iron deficiency.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your medication and follow the instructions closely.
Administration Instructions
You can take this medication with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, take it with food.
For best absorption, take this medication at bedtime. If you have questions about the timing, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Special Instructions for Extended-Release Products
Swallow the extended-release tablets whole. Do not chew, break, or crush them.
Instructions for Liquid and Chewable Forms
When taking the liquid form, measure your dose carefully using the measuring device provided with the medication. If no device is included, ask your pharmacist for a suitable measuring device.
For chewable tablets, chew them well before swallowing.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Protect your medication from heat and light.
Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
If it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
* Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your medication and follow the instructions closely.
Administration Instructions
You can take this medication with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, take it with food.
For best absorption, take this medication at bedtime. If you have questions about the timing, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Special Instructions for Extended-Release Products
Swallow the extended-release tablets whole. Do not chew, break, or crush them.
Instructions for Liquid and Chewable Forms
When taking the liquid form, measure your dose carefully using the measuring device provided with the medication. If no device is included, ask your pharmacist for a suitable measuring device.
For chewable tablets, chew them well before swallowing.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Protect your medication from heat and light.
Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
If it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
* Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take with food to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset, especially from iron.
- Avoid taking with dairy products, antacids, coffee, or tea, as these can reduce iron absorption. Separate by at least 2 hours.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children, as accidental iron overdose is a leading cause of poisoning fatalities in young children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
1 tablet orally once daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Dose Range:
1 - 1 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
ironDeficiencyAnemia:
Dosing may be adjusted based on specific iron and vitamin deficiencies, typically 1-2 tablets daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established; specific pediatric formulations are available.
Infant:
Not established; specific pediatric formulations are available.
Child:
Not established; specific pediatric formulations are available. Consult pediatrician for appropriate dosing.
Adolescent:
Typically adult dose for older adolescents, but consult pediatrician or product label.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Generally no specific adjustment for standard doses.
Moderate:
Generally no specific adjustment for standard doses; monitor for accumulation of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and certain minerals (e.g., phosphorus, potassium) if present in high amounts.
Severe:
Use with caution; monitor vitamin and mineral levels (especially Vitamin A, D, and iron) as accumulation can occur. Consult nephrologist.
Dialysis:
Specific formulations for dialysis patients exist (e.g., nephrovitamins) that exclude or limit certain vitamins/minerals. Corvite FE is generally not recommended without specific medical advice.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
Generally no specific adjustment.
Moderate:
Generally no specific adjustment.
Severe:
Use with caution; monitor for accumulation of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) as hepatic metabolism may be impaired. Consult hepatologist.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Corvite FE Tablets provide essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, that are crucial cofactors for numerous metabolic processes, enzyme functions, and cellular activities. They help prevent or treat deficiencies arising from inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption, or increased physiological demands (e.g., pregnancy, growth). Iron is essential for hemoglobin formation and oxygen transport.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Highly variable depending on specific vitamin/mineral, chemical form, presence of food, and individual physiological factors. Iron absorption is typically 5-15% but can increase to 20-30% in deficiency.
Tmax:
Varies widely by component (e.g., iron: 2-4 hours; water-soluble vitamins: rapid absorption).
FoodEffect:
Generally recommended to take with food to enhance absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and minimize gastrointestinal upset from iron. Certain foods (e.g., dairy, tea, coffee) can inhibit iron absorption.
Distribution:
Vd:
Varies widely by component; water-soluble vitamins distribute into body water, fat-soluble vitamins are stored in adipose tissue and liver. Iron is primarily bound to transferrin in plasma and stored as ferritin/hemosiderin.
ProteinBinding:
Varies widely; some vitamins (e.g., Vitamin D) are highly protein-bound. Iron is bound to transferrin.
CnssPenetration:
Limited for many components; specific vitamins (e.g., B vitamins) are essential for CNS function and cross the blood-brain barrier.
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Varies widely (e.g., water-soluble vitamins: hours; fat-soluble vitamins: days to months; iron: not applicable as it's conserved).
Clearance:
Varies widely; renal excretion for water-soluble vitamins. Biliary excretion for some fat-soluble vitamins.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (water-soluble vitamins), Biliary/Fecal (some fat-soluble vitamins, unabsorbed iron).
Unchanged:
Varies widely; significant amounts of water-soluble vitamins may be excreted unchanged.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Not applicable in the context of a daily supplement for general health; therapeutic effects for deficiency may take weeks to months (e.g., iron deficiency anemia).
PeakEffect:
Not applicable.
DurationOfAction:
Not applicable; continuous daily intake is required to maintain adequate levels.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
If your product contains iron:
+ Black, tarry, or bloody stools
+ Fever
+ Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
+ Stomach cramps
Other Possible Side Effects
Most people do not experience significant side effects, but some may occur. If you are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they persist, contact your doctor for guidance:
Common to all products:
+ Upset stomach or vomiting
If your product contains iron:
+ Diarrhea or constipation
+ Change in stool color to green
+ Stomach pain
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
If your product contains iron:
+ Black, tarry, or bloody stools
+ Fever
+ Vomiting blood or coffee ground-like material
+ Stomach cramps
Other Possible Side Effects
Most people do not experience significant side effects, but some may occur. If you are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they persist, contact your doctor for guidance:
Common to all products:
+ Upset stomach or vomiting
If your product contains iron:
+ Diarrhea or constipation
+ Change in stool color to green
+ Stomach pain
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (could indicate overdose or severe reaction).
- Black, tarry stools (common with iron, but seek medical attention if accompanied by other symptoms of bleeding).
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing).
- Signs of iron overload (fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, heart problems, liver damage) if taking excessive doses for prolonged periods.
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions before starting this medication:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this drug, its components, or other substances, and describe the symptoms you experienced.
Certain types of anemia, such as pernicious anemia, where the body lacks sufficient vitamin B12.
If you are taking levodopa.
If you are taking mineral oil.
* If your product contains iron:
+ If you have an excessive amount of iron in your body (iron overload).
+ If you have hemolytic anemia, a condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be made.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other drugs and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions before starting this medication:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this drug, its components, or other substances, and describe the symptoms you experienced.
Certain types of anemia, such as pernicious anemia, where the body lacks sufficient vitamin B12.
If you are taking levodopa.
If you are taking mineral oil.
* If your product contains iron:
+ If you have an excessive amount of iron in your body (iron overload).
+ If you have hemolytic anemia, a condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be made.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other drugs and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. This is crucial because this drug may interfere with certain laboratory tests. Therefore, be sure to notify all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication.
If you have a soy allergy, consult with your doctor before taking this medication, as some products may contain soy. Similarly, if you are allergic to tartrazine (also known as FD&C Yellow No. 5), discuss this with your doctor, as some products may contain this ingredient.
When administering this medication to children, it is vital to note that different brands may be suitable for different age groups. Before giving this drug to a child, consult with your doctor to ensure you are using the appropriate brand and dosage.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication to you and your baby.
If you have a soy allergy, consult with your doctor before taking this medication, as some products may contain soy. Similarly, if you are allergic to tartrazine (also known as FD&C Yellow No. 5), discuss this with your doctor, as some products may contain this ingredient.
When administering this medication to children, it is vital to note that different brands may be suitable for different age groups. Before giving this drug to a child, consult with your doctor to ensure you are using the appropriate brand and dosage.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of taking this medication to you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Initial symptoms (within 6 hours): Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (may be bloody), abdominal pain, lethargy, pallor.
- Latent period (6-24 hours): Apparent recovery, but toxicity is progressing.
- Late symptoms (12-48 hours): Metabolic acidosis, shock, liver failure, coagulopathy, coma, seizures, cardiovascular collapse.
- Delayed effects (weeks): Gastric scarring, stricture formation.
What to Do:
IMMEDIATELY call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention. Treatment may involve gastric lavage, whole bowel irrigation, and chelation therapy (e.g., deferoxamine) for severe iron overdose.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline): Iron can chelate tetracyclines, reducing their absorption. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
- Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin): Iron can chelate fluoroquinolones, reducing their absorption. Separate administration by at least 2-4 hours.
- Levothyroxine: Iron can reduce levothyroxine absorption. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
- Warfarin: High doses of Vitamin K can antagonize warfarin's anticoagulant effect. Corvite FE typically contains low or no Vitamin K, but monitor INR if significant changes in intake occur.
Moderate Interactions
- Antacids (e.g., calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide): Can reduce iron absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
- H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine) and Proton Pump Inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, pantoprazole): Can reduce iron absorption by increasing gastric pH.
- Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate): Iron can interfere with bisphosphonate absorption. Separate administration by at least 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Penicillamine: Iron can reduce penicillamine absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
- Mycophenolate mofetil: Iron can reduce mycophenolate absorption.
- Cholestyramine/Colestipol: Can impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
- Orlistat: Can impair absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
- Phenytoin/Phenobarbital: Can increase metabolism of Vitamin D and Folic Acid.
Minor Interactions
- Dietary fiber, phytates (in whole grains), oxalates (in spinach), tannins (in tea/coffee): Can reduce iron absorption.
- Calcium supplements/dairy products: Can reduce iron absorption. Take iron at a different time.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Ferritin
Rationale: To assess for pre-existing anemia or iron deficiency, which may influence the need for or response to iron supplementation.
Timing: Prior to initiation if iron deficiency is suspected or being treated.
Renal and Hepatic Function Tests
Rationale: To identify severe impairment that may necessitate dose adjustment or careful monitoring of certain vitamin/mineral levels.
Timing: Prior to initiation in patients with known or suspected organ dysfunction.
Routine Monitoring
Symptoms of deficiency or excess
Frequency: Ongoing
Target: Absence of symptoms
Action Threshold: Development of new symptoms (e.g., GI upset, dark stools, constipation, signs of hypervitaminosis) warrants medical evaluation.
Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Ferritin (if treating iron deficiency anemia)
Frequency: Every 3-6 months or as clinically indicated
Target: Normalization of values (e.g., Hemoglobin >12 g/dL for women, >13 g/dL for men; Ferritin >30 ng/mL)
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening of anemia, or signs of iron overload.
Symptom Monitoring
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea)
- Darkening of stools (common with iron, not clinically significant unless accompanied by other symptoms)
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue, weakness (if deficiency persists or worsens)
- Signs of hypervitaminosis (e.g., headache, blurred vision, skin changes for Vitamin A; hypercalcemia for Vitamin D; peripheral neuropathy for high B6)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Often recommended and beneficial during pregnancy to meet increased nutritional demands, particularly for iron and folic acid. Specific prenatal vitamin formulations are designed for this purpose. Consult a healthcare provider.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Crucial for neural tube development (folic acid) and early iron needs. Generally safe and recommended.
Second Trimester:
Continued need for iron to support increased blood volume and fetal growth. Generally safe and recommended.
Third Trimester:
High iron demand. Generally safe and recommended.
Lactation
Generally safe and often recommended during lactation to support maternal health and ensure adequate nutrient transfer to breast milk. Consult a healthcare provider.
Infant Risk:
Low risk to infant at recommended doses; vitamins and minerals are naturally present in breast milk. Excessive doses of fat-soluble vitamins (especially A and D) could theoretically pose a risk, but unlikely with standard multivitamin doses.
Pediatric Use
Corvite FE Tablets are typically formulated for adults. Pediatric patients require specific multivitamin formulations with appropriate dosing based on age and weight to prevent overdose (especially iron) or inadequate intake. Accidental iron overdose is a leading cause of poisoning fatalities in children.
Geriatric Use
May be beneficial for older adults, especially if dietary intake is poor or absorption is reduced (e.g., Vitamin B12). Specific formulations for seniors often contain higher Vitamin D and B12, and sometimes less iron. Consult a healthcare provider to assess individual needs and avoid excessive intake of certain vitamins (e.g., Vitamin A).
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always advise patients to keep iron-containing supplements out of reach of children due to the high risk of fatal overdose.
- Educate patients on potential GI side effects of iron (constipation, dark stools) and strategies to mitigate them (take with food, increase fiber/fluids).
- Remind patients that supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet.
- Advise patients to inform their healthcare providers about all supplements they are taking to avoid potential drug-nutrient interactions.
Alternative Therapies
- Dietary modifications to increase intake of iron-rich foods (e.g., red meat, fortified cereals, leafy greens) and vitamin-rich foods.
- Individual vitamin or mineral supplements if only specific deficiencies are identified (e.g., iron supplements, folic acid supplements, Vitamin D supplements).
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 per 30 tablets
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Often available over-the-counter (OTC) and may not be covered by prescription drug plans. Some plans may cover specific prenatal vitamins or therapeutic iron supplements with a prescription.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.