Haematinic Health Dictionary

A drug that raises the quantity of HAEMOGLOBIN in the blood. Ferrous sulphate is a common example of iron-containing compounds given to anaemic (see ANAEMIA) patients whose condition is due to iron de?ciency. Traditionally, haematinics have been used to prevent anaemia in pregnant women, but nowadays a maternal diet containing iron-rich foods and regular antenatal checks of haemoglobin concentrations in the blood should make the routine use of haematinics unnecessary.

n. a drug that increases the amount of *haemoglobin in the blood, e.g. *ferrous sulphate and other iron-containing compounds. Haematinics are used, often in combination with vitamins and folic acid, to prevent and treat anaemia due to iron deficiency. They are used particularly to prevent anaemia during pregnancy. Digestive disturbances sometimes occur with haematinics.