Uses of Elemental Iron

Elemental iron is used to correct iron deficiency anemia.

Therapeutic Category

Elemental iron: Minerals and Supplements

How Elemental Iron works

Iron is an essential micronutrient that gives the red blood cells the reddish-brown colour and the capacity to transport oxygen. When taken as a supplement, it improves oxygen levels in the body and corrects tiredness, weakness and shortness of breath caused due to anemia. 

Common side effects of Elemental Iron

• dark stools or constipation
• diarrhea, stomach pain, bloating
• nausea or vomiting
• metallic taste
• high or low blood pressure
• headache, dizziness
• flushing (feeling hot)

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if your experience:

• signs of Kounis syndrome (such as skin rash, itching, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue, throat or body, and chest pain)
• signs of hypophosphatemia (such as muscle or bone pain and worsening of tiredness)
• severe allergic reactions (such as feeling dizzy or faint, light-headedness, low blood pressure, swelling of the face, difficulty in breathing and chest pain)

Health Tips for Elemental Iron

• Take iron supplements exactly as advised by your doctor to achieve better results. It must be taken with meals. Do not self-medicate
• Along with the treatment, eat plenty of dark leafy vegetables and a well-balanced diet
• Concomitant use of this medicine with iron therapy (oral or IV) should be strictly avoided, as it may lead to unwanted side effects
• Do not take iron supplements if you have iron overload syndromes, GI disorders and low blood phosphate levels, or liver disease
• Ask your doctor for advice before taking iron supplements, if you are pregnant or breast-feeding