Doctors recommend iron supplements to treat iron deficiency. Although you can obtain iron supplements without a prescription, do not take them unless you have been directed to do so by your doctor. While iron deficiency anemia usually resolves in about two months -- corresponding with the amount of time it takes for the body to produce new red blood cells -- it takes between six months and one year to replenish your body's iron stores. How fast an iron supplement works depends on several factors.
Types
There are three types of iron supplements: ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate and ferrous gluconate. Although a standard dose of 325 mg is used for all three, these supplements do not contain equal amounts of iron. Ferrous fumarate contains the most iron -- about 33 percent. Ferrous sulfate has 20 percent, and ferrous gluconate contains 12 percent. Theoretically, more iron means faster response.
Doses
Your body can only absorb a certain amount of iron at a time. As a result, your doctor will probably tell you to take one pill up to three times per day, rather than three pills at the same time. Taking the supplement more often replenishes your iron levels faster. However, it can also lead to more side effects. If you're suffering from symptomatic iron deficiency, you and your doctor may decide that your symptoms outweigh the risk of side effects. However, once your symptoms resolve, your doctor may tell you to reduce the frequency to once a day.
Timing
Your body absorbs iron supplements best on an empty stomach. Try to take them at least one hour before a meal. However, if this causes an upset stomach, your doctor may tell you to take them with food. Always take iron supplements at least two hours before or after other medications and supplements, especially acid controller medications and calcium or zinc supplements. If you have difficulty scheduling this, ask your doctor for advice.
Considerations
For best results, take iron supplements with a glass of acidic juice such as orange or tomato juice. The acids in the juice help your body absorb the iron. Your body also requires other nutrients -- including vitamins B6 and B12, vitamin A, folate and copper -- to use iron effectively. Consuming a balanced diet or supplementing with a multivitamin will help you respond quickly to iron supplementation.
Monitoring
Your doctor may periodically order follow-up blood tests for hematocrit, hemoglobin or ferritin to assure that you are responding to iron supplements or to determine whether it is safe to discontinue them. Do not fast before these blood tests unless your doctor tells you to do so. Do arrive adequately hydrated to avoid skewing test results.
References
- MedlinePlus: Iron
- National Institutes of Health: Office of Dietary Supplements: Iron
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 23rd Edition"; Anthony S. Fauci, M.D. et al.; 2008
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