Iron is a mineral that the body needs to produce red blood cells. Red blood cells contain an oxygen-carrying protein known as hemoglobin. When the body does not get enough iron, it cannot produce healthy red blood cells, and iron deficiency anemia results. Iron deficiency anemia is treated with iron supplements. Iron supplements are best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach, according to MayoClinic.com.
Iron Supplements, Antacids and Proton Pump Inhibitors
Iron supplements are best absorbed in acidic stomach environments. Taking antacids and proton pump inhibitors with iron decreases its absorption, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Antacids increase stomach pH, while proton pump inhibitors suppress the production of stomach acid. For iron to be absorbed, the stomach has to produce enough hydrochloric acid. Patients should take antacids and proton pump inhibitors one to two hours before taking iron supplements.
Iron Supplements and Cholesterol-lowering Drugs
Iron supplements should not be taken with cholesterol-lowering drugs such as cholestyramine and colestipol, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Cholesterol-lowering drugs bind to iron supplements when the two drugs are taken together, which prevents iron from being absorbed. Cholesterol-drugs should be taken one to two hours before iron supplements.
Drug Interaction
Iron should not be taken at the same time, because it causes reduced absorption of certain drugs, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Iron forms insoluble complex compounds when taken together with drugs such as tetracyclines, ACE inhibitors, levothyroxine, quinolones, carbidopa and levodopa. Patients taking these medications may need dose adjustments.
Iron Supplements Administration
Iron supplements are prescribed to patients when diet alone cannot restore normal iron levels. Iron supplements are also useful in treating iron deficiency anemia. Iron supplements are available in the form of capsules, tablets, liquids and shots. Iron supplements are also best absorbed when taken in three small doses, because the amount of iron absorbed decreases with increased dose. Patients should use a drinking straw to take iron supplements because they may stain the teeth. Other effects of iron supplements includes constipation, upset stomach, heartburn, dark stool and diarrhea.
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