IRON FUMARATE

Iron fumarate is an iron–organic salt compound in which ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) is combined with fumaric acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid.
Iron fumarate appears as a reddish-brown to orange crystalline powder and is widely used as an oral iron supplement in the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
With its high elemental iron content and better gastrointestinal tolerance than many other iron salts, iron fumarate is considered an efficient and well-tolerated source of iron in pharmaceuticals and nutrition.

CAS Number: 141-01-5
EC Number: 205-447-7
Molecular Formula: C4H2FeO4
Molecular Weight: 169.9 g/mol

Synonyms: Iron fumarate, Fumaric acid, iron salt, EINECS 238-433-4, 2-Butenedioic acid (E)-, iron salt, 2-Butenedioic acid (2E)-, iron salt, 14451-00-4, RefChem:148786, 238-433-4, Iron(III) Fumarate, SCHEMBL342741, Ferrous fumarate, Iron(II) fumarate, 141-01-5, Feostat, Galfer, Palafer, Ircon, Ercoferro, Ferrofume, Hemoton, Toleron, Tolferain, Tolifer, Cpiron, Fumar, Erco-Fer, Heferol, Orgasal, 2-Butenedioic acid (2E)-, iron(2+) salt (1:1), FUMARIC ACID, IRON(2+) SALT (1:1), Iron (as fumarate), METERFER, R5L488RY0Q, 2-Butenedioic acid (E)-, iron(2+) salt (1:1), Iron (as ferrous fumarate), DTXSID7047148, LO MINASTRIN FE COMPONENT FERROUS FUMARATE, MINASTRIN 24 FE COMPONENT FERROUS FUMARATE, Fersaday, Ferrosi fumaras, Microgestin Fe, RefChem:5827, TARINA 24 FE, DTXCID5027148, 205-447-7, Iron(2+) fumarate, (E)-but-2-enedioate;iron(2+), 2-Butenedioic acid, (E)-, iron(2+) salt, Fersamal, 7705-12-6, Feroton, Ferronat, Ferrone, Ferrotemp, Fumafer, Fumiron, Firon, One-iron, Fumar-F, ferrousfumarate, Ferrocite, CCRIS 6896, Ferrous fumarate; Iron(II) (E)-butenedioate, EINECS 205-447-7, C4H2FeO4, UNII-R5L488RY0Q, Ferrofumarate, Ferrous fumarate [USP:JAN], Fumaric acid, iron(2+) salt, Feostat (TN), Ferrum (TN), SCHEMBL24284, Ferrous fumarate (JAN/USP), FERROUS FUMARATE [II], FERROUS FUMARATE [MI], ferrous;(E)-but-2-enedioate, FERROUS FUMARATE [FCC], FERROUS FUMARATE [JAN], Iron(II) fumarate (Standard), orb1311039, FERROUS FUMARATE [VANDF], CHEBI:31607, HY-B1651R, FERROUS FUMARATE [MART.], FERROUS FUMARATE [WHO-DD], FERROUS FUMARATE [WHO-IP], HY-B1651, EINECS 231-731-5, AKOS015918237, FERROUS FUMARATE [ORANGE BOOK], DB14491, FERROSI FUMARAS [WHO-IP LATIN], FERROUS FUMARATE [EP MONOGRAPH], FF34306, FERROUS FUMARATE [USP MONOGRAPH], DA-54383, IRON (AS FERROUS FUMARATE) [VANDF], 2-Butenedioic acid (2E)-, iron(2+) salt, CS-0013603, NORQUEST FE COMPONENT FERROUS FUMARATE, NS00079615, D01194, F600886, Q416370, 2-Butenedioic acid (2E)-, iron(2+) salt (1:?)

Iron fumarate is an iron–organic salt compound in which iron (Fe²⁺) is combined with fumaric acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid.
Iron fumarate appears as a reddish-brown to orange crystalline powder and is commonly used as an iron supplement in the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia.

Compared to some other iron salts, iron fumarate is favored for its high iron content and better gastrointestinal tolerance, reducing the likelihood of side effects such as constipation or stomach irritation.
Functionally, Iron fumarate provides elemental iron that is absorbed in the small intestine and incorporated into hemoglobin and other iron-containing enzymes, supporting oxygen transport and energy metabolism.

In pharmaceutical formulations, iron fumarate is often found in tablets or capsules, either alone or in combination with vitamins (especially folic acid and vitamin B12) for comprehensive anemia therapy.
Iron fumarate is considered stable under normal conditions, though it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture to prevent degradation.

Iron fumarate is the iron(II) salt of fumaric acid, occurring as a reddish-orange powder, used to supplement iron intake.
Iron fumarate has the chemical formula C4H2FeO4.
Pure Iron fumarate has an iron content of 32.87%, therefore one tablet of 300 mg iron fumarate will contain 98.6 mg of iron (548% Daily Value based on 18 mg RDI).

Iron fumarate is a type of iron.
You normally get iron from the foods you eat.

In your body, iron becomes a part of your hemoglobin (HEEM o glo bin) and myoglobin (MY o glo bin).
Hemoglobin carries oxygen through your blood to tissues and organs.
Myoglobin helps your muscle cells store oxygen.

Iron fumarate is used to treat iron deficiency anemia (a lack of red blood cells caused by having too little iron in the body).
Iron fumarate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Iron fumarate is the fumarate salt form of the mineral iron.
Administration of Iron fumarate results in elevation of serum iron concentration, which is then assimilated into hemoglobin, required for the transport of oxygen, or trapped in the reticuloendothelial cells for storage.
This agent is used as a dietary supplement, and to prevent or treat iron deficiency related syndromes.

Iron fumarate is a type of iron that's used as a medicine to treat and prevent iron deficiency anaemia.

Iron helps the body to make healthy red blood cells which carry oxygen around the body.
Some things such as blood loss, pregnancy or too little iron in your diet can make your iron supply drop too low, leading to anaemia.

Iron fumarate comes as tablets, capsules or as a liquid that you swallow.
Iron fumarate's available on prescription and to buy from pharmacies.

Iron fumarate is an orally effective active dietary supplement.
Iron fumarate can alleviate metabolic damage and damage to silkworms caused by cypermethrin (HY-123178).
Iron fumarate can be used for research on iron deficiency anemia.

Iron fumarate is a crystalline salt formed by the combination of ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) with fumaric acid, an unsaturated dicarboxylic acid that is also an intermediate in the Krebs cycle. 
Iron fumarate typically appears as a reddish-brown or orange powder, odorless, and with good stability under normal conditions.

Iron fumarate belongs to the class of oral iron supplements widely used in human nutrition and medicine, particularly for the management of iron deficiency anemia.
Iron fumarate's chemical formula is generally expressed as C₄H₂FeO₄, and it provides a high percentage of elemental iron, making it more efficient on a per-weight basis than many other iron salts.

Iron supplement:
Iron fumarate is often taken orally as an iron supplement to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Mixtures of Iron fumarate and potassium iodate, "double fortified salt", are used to address both iron and iodine deficiencies.

Market Overview of Iron Fumarate:
The global iron fumarate market is experiencing steady growth, driven primarily by the rising prevalence of iron deficiency anemia worldwide and the increasing use of iron supplementation in pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and food fortification programs.
Valued at around USD 200–270 million in 2024 depending on the source, the market is projected to expand to between USD 350 million and nearly USD 400 billion by 2033–2034, with a CAGR ranging from 4% to over 6% in most reports, and some analyses suggesting even higher regional growth rates.

Demand is particularly strong in the Asia-Pacific region, which leads the market due to high anemia rates and large-scale fortification initiatives, while North America and Europe maintain strong shares through advanced pharmaceutical infrastructure.
Within applications, pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements dominate, with iron fumarate widely used in tablets, capsules, and fortified foods owing to its high elemental iron content, stability, and relatively mild gastrointestinal side effects compared to other salts.

Major industry players—including Lonza, BASF, Merck, Evonik, and TCI Chemicals—are focusing on innovative formulations and expanding their reach into developing markets.
As global nutrition programs intensify and consumer awareness of anemia prevention grows, iron fumarate is expected to remain a critical compound in the healthcare and food industries.

Uses of Iron Fumarate:
Iron fumarate is primarily used as an oral iron supplement to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia, a condition common among pregnant women, children, and individuals with poor dietary intake or chronic blood loss.
In the pharmaceutical sector, Iron fumarate is incorporated into tablets, capsules, and syrups, either alone or in combination with folic acid and vitamin B₁₂, to support red blood cell production and overall hematological health.

In nutritional applications, iron fumarate is widely employed in food fortification programs, where it is added to flour, cereals, rice, pasta, and infant formulas to combat widespread anemia in populations at risk.
Iron fumarate's relatively high elemental iron content and stable crystalline form make it a preferred additive for processed foods, as it has minimal impact on taste and color compared to other iron salts.

Beyond human health, iron fumarate is also used in veterinary formulations to correct iron deficiencies in livestock and pets, thereby supporting growth, immune function, and reproductive health.
In addition, Iron fumarate plays a role in dietary supplement manufacturing, particularly in multivitamin-mineral complexes, where it provides a reliable source of iron with fewer gastrointestinal side effects than ferrous sulfate.
Collectively, these diverse uses make iron fumarate a critical compound in public health strategies, clinical medicine, and the global nutrition industry.

Benefits of Iron Fumarate:
Iron fumarate offers several important benefits that make it one of the most widely used forms of supplemental iron in both medicine and nutrition.
Iron fumarate's greatest advantage lies in its high elemental iron content (≈33%), meaning smaller doses can provide the necessary therapeutic effect compared to salts like ferrous gluconate.

Iron fumarate is also considered more gentle on the gastrointestinal tract than ferrous sulfate, resulting in fewer side effects such as nausea, constipation, or stomach irritation, which improves patient compliance during long-term treatment.
Another benefit is Iron fumarate's chemical stability—iron fumarate does not oxidize or degrade easily, making it suitable for incorporation into multivitamins, fortified foods, and pharmaceutical products without significant loss of potency. 

In addition, Iron fumarate's neutral taste and color ensure that it can be added to flours, cereals, and infant formulas without negatively affecting sensory qualities, a key factor in large-scale food fortification programs.
Clinically, Iron fumarate supports the restoration of hemoglobin levels, red blood cell production, and oxygen transport, helping to combat fatigue, weakness, and cognitive impairment associated with anemia.

Furthermore, when used in combination with folic acid and vitamin B₁₂, Iron fumarate contributes to improved outcomes in pregnant women, reducing the risk of maternal anemia and supporting healthy fetal development.
Because of its effectiveness, tolerability, and versatility, iron fumarate is recognized as a cost-effective and reliable solution for addressing iron deficiency in both developed and developing countries.

Production of Iron Fumarate:
Iron fumarate is generally produced through a neutralization reaction between fumaric acid (a naturally occurring unsaturated dicarboxylic acid) and ferrous salts such as ferrous carbonate, ferrous sulfate, or ferrous chloride.
In the typical process, fumaric acid is suspended in water and slowly neutralized with a ferrous base or salt under controlled conditions of temperature and pH, leading to the formation of Iron fumarate as a reddish-brown crystalline precipitate.

The reaction is usually carried out in stainless steel reactors to avoid contamination, and care is taken to maintain an oxygen-limited environment to prevent oxidation of ferrous ions (Fe²⁺) to ferric ions (Fe³⁺), which would reduce product purity and bioavailability.
After precipitation, the product is filtered, washed, and dried under vacuum or hot air to obtain a stable powder with a defined particle size distribution.

In pharmaceutical-grade production, additional purification steps such as recrystallization and micronization are applied to achieve the required standards for purity, solubility, and bioavailability.
Industrial manufacturers also optimize the process for high yield and minimal by-products, and quality control involves testing for elemental iron content, residual moisture, heavy metals, and microbial contamination.
Modern production increasingly emphasizes Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) compliance to ensure safety for use in pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and food fortification programs.

Synthesis of Iron Fumarate:
The synthesis of iron fumarate is typically achieved by reacting ferrous salts with fumaric acid under controlled aqueous conditions, yielding Iron fumarate as a reddish-brown crystalline solid.
A common laboratory method involves dissolving fumaric acid (C₄H₄O₄) in hot water and gradually neutralizing it with a ferrous source such as ferrous carbonate (FeCO₃), ferrous sulfate (FeSO₄·7H₂O), or ferrous chloride (FeCl₂·4H₂O).

During the neutralization, fumaric acid donates protons to the ferrous base, forming Iron fumarate (C₄H₂FeO₄) and liberating carbon dioxide or the corresponding anion depending on the precursor used.
The reaction is generally carried out in a low-oxygen environment to preserve the Fe²⁺ oxidation state, since exposure to air can lead to partial conversion into ferric iron (Fe³⁺) and reduce bioavailability.

Once the reaction is complete, the precipitated Iron fumarate is separated by filtration, washed thoroughly to remove unreacted reagents and impurities, and then dried under vacuum or controlled heat to obtain a stable crystalline powder.
For pharmaceutical applications, the product may undergo additional steps such as micronization to improve uniformity and dissolution rate, or recrystallization to enhance purity.
On an industrial scale, synthesis is optimized for yield, particle size distribution, and minimal by-products, with stringent quality checks on elemental iron content, solubility, and absence of heavy metals to meet pharmacopeia standards.

History of Iron Fumarate:
The history of iron fumarate is closely tied to the development of oral iron therapy in the 20th century, when physicians sought more effective and tolerable alternatives to early iron salts like ferrous sulfate and ferric chloride, which often caused severe gastrointestinal irritation.
Iron fumarate was first introduced into clinical use in the mid-1900s, when researchers recognized that combining ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) with fumaric acid, a naturally occurring intermediate of the Krebs cycle, produced a salt that not only offered a high proportion of elemental iron but was also better tolerated by patients.

By the 1960s and 1970s, Iron fumarate was being incorporated into pharmaceutical formulations and nutritional supplements, particularly in Europe and North America, as an alternative to ferrous sulfate in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
Iron fumarate's favorable properties—such as relative stability, palatability, and reduced gastrointestinal side effects—led to its adoption in prenatal vitamins and later in public health fortification programs, where it was added to flour and cereal products to combat anemia on a population level.

Over the decades, iron fumarate gained recognition in international pharmacopeias and was recommended by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the suitable forms of iron for large-scale nutritional interventions.
Today, Iron fumarate's history reflects a gradual evolution from a laboratory-prepared salt to a globally important therapeutic and nutritional compound, central to efforts in reducing iron deficiency, which remains one of the most widespread nutritional disorders worldwide.

Handling and Storage of Iron Fumarate:

Handling:
Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Prevent dust formation and avoid inhalation of dust particles.
Use only in well-ventilated areas or under local exhaust ventilation.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, lab coat). Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Protect from moisture, direct sunlight, and heat sources.
Keep away from strong oxidizing agents and strong acids.

Stability and Reactivity of Iron Fumarate:

Stability:
Stable under normal temperature and pressure conditions.

Reactivity:
May react with strong oxidizers, strong acids, and alkali metals.
Thermal decomposition can release carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and iron oxides.

First Aid Measures of Iron Fumarate:

Inhalation:
Move exposed person to fresh air.
If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen and seek medical attention.

Skin Contact:
Wash immediately with soap and plenty of water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Seek medical advice if irritation occurs.

Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes, lifting eyelids occasionally.
Remove contact lenses if present.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Ingestion: 
Rinse mouth thoroughly with water.
Do not induce vomiting.
Give water to drink and seek medical attention immediately.

Firefighting Measures of Iron Fumarate:

Extinguishing Media:
Use water spray, carbon dioxide, foam, or dry chemical powder.

Hazards:
Fire may produce toxic gases such as CO, CO₂, and iron oxides.

Protective Equipment:
Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective clothing.

Accidental Release Measures of Iron Fumarate:

Personal Precautions:
Wear protective gloves, goggles, and suitable clothing.
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Avoid inhalation of dust.

Spill Cleanup:
Sweep or vacuum spilled material carefully and place in suitable container for disposal.
Wash spill area with water after cleanup.
Prevent entry into drains, surface water, or soil.

Exposure Controls / Personal Protection of Iron Fumarate:

Engineering Controls:
Use local exhaust ventilation or general room ventilation to minimize airborne dust levels.

Personal Protection:

Respiratory:
Use approved dust mask or respirator if exposure limits are exceeded.

Skin:
Wear chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene).

Eyes:
Use safety goggles or face shield.

Body:
Wear protective clothing (lab coat, apron, or coveralls).

Hygiene Measures:
Do not eat, drink, or smoke when handling the material.
Wash hands, face, and exposed skin thoroughly after use.
Remove and wash contaminated clothing before reuse.

Identifiers of Iron Fumarate:
Chemical Name: Iron(II) fumarate / Ferrous fumarate
Synonyms: Iron fumarate, Ferrous fumarate, Fumaric acid iron(2+) salt
Molecular Formula: C₄H₂FeO₄
Molecular Weight: 169.9 g/mol
CAS Number: 141-01-5
EC Number (EINECS): 205-447-7
UN Number: Not classified as hazardous for transport
HS Code: 29171990 (derivatives of acyclic polycarboxylic acids, for trade classification)
InChI Key: PIPFKCHXMHTIBW-UHFFFAOYSA-L
IUPAC Name: Iron(2+); but-2-enedioate

CAS Number: 141-01-5
ChEMBL: ChEMBL1200640
ChemSpider: 10607713
ECHA InfoCard: 100.004.953
PubChem CID: 6433164
UNII: R5L488RY0Q
CompTox Dashboard (EPA): DTXSID7047148
InChIInChI=1S/C4H4O4.Fe/c5-3(6)1-2-4(7)8;/h1-2H,(H,5,6)(H,7,8);/q;+2/p-2/b2-1+;
Key: PMVSDNDAUGGCCE-TYYBGVCCSA-L
InChI=1/C4H4O4.Fe/c5-3(6)1-2-4(7)8;/h1-2H,(H,5,6)(H,7,8);/q;+2/p-2/b2-1+;
Key: PMVSDNDAUGGCCE-FMKVMNOJBF
SMILES: [Fe+2].[O-]C(=O)/C=C/C([O-])=O

Chemical Name: Iron(II) fumarate
Synonyms: Ferrous fumarate, Iron fumarate, Fumaric acid iron(2+) salt
IUPAC Name: Iron(2+); (E)-but-2-enedioate
Molecular Formula: C₄H₂FeO₄
Molecular Weight: 169.90 g/mol
CAS Number: 141-01-5
EC Number (EINECS): 205-447-7
InChI: InChI=1S/C4H4O4.Fe/c5-3(6)1-2-4(7)8;/h1-2H,(H,5,6)(H,7,8);/q;+2/p-2
InChI Key: PIPFKCHXMHTIBW-UHFFFAOYSA-L
PubChem CID: 3084054
UNII (FDA): 2JK4F6E81H
RTECS Number: Not assigned specifically (covered under generic iron salts)
HS Code: 29171990 (derivatives of acyclic polycarboxylic acids)
ChEBI ID: CHEBI:31613
DrugBank ID: DB01326 (used in supplements/medications)
ATC Code (if in formulations): B03AA02 (iron bivalent, oral preparations)

Properties of Iron Fumarate:
Chemical formula: C4H2FeO4
Molar mass: 169.901 g·mol−1
Appearance: reddish-brown powder
Odor: odorless
Density: 2.435 g/cm3 (20 °C)
Melting point: 280 °C (536 °F; 553 K)
Solubility in water: slightly soluble

Molecular Weight: 453.86 g/mol
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 0
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 12
Rotatable Bond Count: 0
Exact Mass: 453.855797 Da
Monoisotopic Mass: 453.855797 Da
Topological Polar Surface Area: 241 Ų
Heavy Atom Count: 26
Complexity: 108
Isotope Atom Count: 0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 3
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 5
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes

Appearance: Reddish-brown to orange crystalline powder
Odor: Odorless
Taste: Practically tasteless to slightly metallic
Molecular Formula: C₄H₂FeO₄
Molecular Weight: 169.90 g/mol
Density (bulk): ~0.9–1.2 g/cm³
pH (1% suspension in water): ~5.5–7.0

Solubility:
Poorly soluble in water (~0.1 g/L at 25 °C)
Slightly soluble in dilute acids
Insoluble in ethanol and most organic solvents

Elemental Iron Content: ~32–33%
Melting Point / Decomposition: Decomposes above ~200 °C (with release of CO₂ and iron oxides)
Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes before boiling)
Flash Point: Not flammable
Explosive Properties: Not explosive
Oxidizing Properties: Not an oxidizer, but can promote oxidation under high heat
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; hygroscopic if exposed to high humidity
Partition Coefficient (log P): Not applicable (ionic salt)

Names of Iron Fumarate:

IUPAC name:
Iron(2+) (2E)-but-2-enedioate

Other names:
Ferrous fumarate
Feostat