TriHEMIC Mechanism of Action

Pharmacology: Pharmacodynamics/Pharmacokinetics: Multivitamins + Iron + Docusate sodium (TriHEMIC) is a preparation containing ingredients essential to normal erythropoiesis, plus a stool softener to counteract the constipating effects of iron.
Iron is irregularly and incompletely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, the main sites of absorption being the duodenum and jejunum. Absorption is aided by the acid secretion of the stomach and by some dietary acids (such as ascorbic acid) and occurs more readily when the iron is in the ferrous state or is part of the haem complex (haem-iron). Absorption is also increased in conditions of iron deficiency or in the fasting state but is decreased if the body stores are overloaded. Normally only about 5 to 15% of the iron ingested in food is absorbed. Only very small amounts of iron are excreted as the majority released after the destruction of the hemoglobin molecule is re-used. This conservation of body iron, and lack of an excretory mechanism for excess iron, is the reason for the development of iron overload with excessive iron therapy or repeated transfusions.
Docusate Sodium works by actively drawing water into the stool, thus softening the stool and achieving ease in bowel movement.