What it is used for
- Iron-deficiency anaemia, including from heavy periods or pregnancy
- Preventing iron deficiency in pregnancy or when iron needs are high (when advised)
How it works
It replaces iron the body needs to make haemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen, correcting or preventing iron-deficiency anaemia.
How it is taken
Taken as a tablet or liquid, often once daily or as advised, sometimes with vitamin C-rich food or drink to aid absorption. Take it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist, or label directs, and keep iron well out of reach of children.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Constipation
- Stomach upset or pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Dark or black stools (harmless)
- Temporary staining of teeth with liquid forms
Serious effects — get help
- Severe stomach pain or vomiting
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction
- In children, accidental overdose is dangerous and needs emergency care
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Some antibiotics (tetracyclines and quinolones)
- Levothyroxine and some other medicines (separate the timing)
- Antacids and indigestion remedies
- Calcium supplements
- Tea and coffee taken at the same time can reduce absorption
Who should take care
- Keep iron strictly away from children, as overdose can be life-threatening
- Take it apart from certain medicines and from tea, coffee, or dairy where advised
- Tell your clinician if you have bowel disease or repeated stomach upset
- Have your iron levels rechecked as advised rather than continuing indefinitely