What are iron supplements (ferrous sulfate) used for?
Ferrous sulfate is used for the treatment and prevention of iron-deficiency anemias.
Iron supplements are available over-the-counter (OTC) in generic form. Other names for ferrous sulfate are the brand names Fer-In-Sol, Slow Fe, Feosol, Feratab, and many more.
What are the side effects of iron supplements?
The most common side effects associated with ferrous sulfate treatment are:
- constipation,
- dark stools,
- stomach pain,
- nausea, and
- vomiting.
Less common side effects include:
What is the dosage for iron supplements?
The recommended dietary reference intake (RDA) based on elemental iron is:
- Individuals 19-50 years : Males 8 mg/day, Females 18 mg/day,
- Pregnant women: 27 mg/day,
- Breastfeeding women: 9 mg/day.
- Individuals = 50 years: 8 mg/day
- For treatment of anemia, the recommended dose expressed as ferrous sulfate is 300 mg every 12 hours and may be increased to 300 mg every 6 hours (regular tablets) or 250 mg daily or every 12 hours (extended release tablets).
- The dose for preventing iron deficiency anemia is 300 mg once daily of ferrous sulfate.
Iron supplements are available as preparations of:
- Elixir: 220 mg/5 ml;
- Solution 75 mg/ml;
- Syrup: 300 mg/5 ml;
- Tablets: 325 mg;
- Delayed release tablets: 324, 325 mg;
- Extended release tablets: 160, 142 mg.
Iron Supplements should be stored at room temperature, 15 C-30 C (59 F-86 F).

QUESTION
According to the USDA, there is no difference between a “portion” and a “serving.” See AnswerWhich drugs or supplements interact with iron supplements?
Antacids, H2-antagonists (for example, cimetidine, ranitidine, famotidine, or nizatidine), pancrelipase, and proton pump inhibitors (for example, omeprazole, lansoprazole, raberprazole, pantoprazole, or esomeprazole) may decrease the absorption of iron supplements.
Iron salts may decrease the blood concentration of bisphophonates (for example, aldendronate, etidronate, risedronate, or tiludronate), cefdinir (Omnicef), deferiprone (Ferripox), dolutegravir (Tivicay), eltrombopag (Promacta), levothyroxine (Synthroid), quinolone antibiotics (for example, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), and tetracycline antibiotics.
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Are iron supplements safe to take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Ferrous sulfate crosses the placenta and is safe to use during pregnancy. All pregnant females should be screened for iron deficiency anemia and treated as necessary.
- Iron is normally found in breast milk. Ferrous sulfate is secreted into breast milk.

SLIDESHOW
Diet-Wrecking Foods: Smoothies, Lattes, Popcorn, and More in Pictures See SlideshowSummary
Ferrous sulfate (Fer-In-Sol, Slow Fe, Feosol, Feratab) is a supplement used for the treatment of iron deficiency anemias. Side effects, drug interactions, dosage, storage, and safety information should be reviewed prior to taking this supplement.
Related Disease Conditions
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Anemia
Anemia is the condition of having less than the normal number of red blood cells or less than the normal quantity of hemoglobin in the blood. The oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is, therefore, decreased. There are several types of anemia such as iron deficiency anemia (the most common type), sickle cell anemia, vitamin B12 anemia, pernicious anemia, and aplastic anemia. Symptoms of anemia may include fatigue, malaise, hair loss, palpitations, menstruation, and medications. Treatment for anemia includes treating the underlying cause for the condition. Iron supplements, vitamin B12 injections, and certain medications may also be necessary.
-
Iron Deficiency
Iron is a mineral our bodies need. Iron deficiency is a condition resulting from not enough iron in the body. It is the most common nutritional deficiency and the leading cause in the US. Iron deficiency is caused due to increased iron deficiency from diseases, nutritional deficiency, or blood loss and the body's inability to intake or absorb iron. Children, teen girls, pregnant women, and babies are at most risk for developing iron deficiency. Symptoms of iron deficiency include feeling weak and tired, decreased work or school performance, slow social development, difficulty maintaining body temperature, decreased immune function, and an inflamed tongue. Blood tests can confirm an iron deficiency in an individual. Treatment depends on the cause of the deficiency. Proper diet that includes recommended daily allowances of iron may prevent some cases of iron deficiency.
-
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium refers to sudden hair loss that is usually triggered by severe illness, diet, stress, or a traumatic event. Treatment may incorporate vitamin supplements, minoxidil, and a well-balanced diet high in protein to help hair growth return to normal.
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