Sytron (Iron)

• Babies who are born before 34 weeks gestation or who weigh less than 1800g at birth are prone to iron deficiency
• Iron is important in the production of healthy blood cells and is therefore useful in preventing anaemia
• Sytron is an Iron supplement, which comes in syrup form and is given orally once a day
• Treatment starts at 6 weeks of age as long as your baby is tolerating full milk feeds
• If your baby falls into the category that needs Sytron but is discharged home before 6 weeks of age you will be given a letter for your GP with a date on which to start Sytron
• It is recommended that Sytron be given until your baby is 9 months from the date at which he was originally expected to have been born
• Before stopping Iron your baby should be on a varied weaning diet
• You can discuss this with your doctor or Health Visitor who will decide what is most appropriate for your baby