Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin that allows erythrocytes (red blood cells) to transport oxygen from the lungs to every cell in the body. The average US citizens get all the iron they need from foods such as shellfish, liver, red meat, turkey, legumes, broccoli, spinach, pumpkin seeds, or dark chocolate. However, there are certain conditions (such as iron-deficiency anemia, pregnancy, breastfeeding, severe blood loss, ADHD, ACE, and dialysis) when adding supplemental iron is necessary. Taking iron capsules and tablets is recommended for preventing and treating low iron in the body which helps maintain good health.
There are three types of over-the-counter pills, including ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous fumarate, which contain different amounts of iron. If taken as directed, iron supplements usually don't cause severe side effects. However, be careful because they can be unsafe for children, especially toddlers. Most people absorb up to 10% of the consumed iron. When the absorption is higher, the surplus can build up to dangerous levels. Sometimes, even when a physician recommends iron supplements, side effects can occur.
What Are the Side Effects of Iron Tablets?
As an essential mineral, iron is necessary for the normal functioning of the body, but seriously harmful and toxic when taken in high doses. The amount of iron, absorbed in the digestive tract, is tightly controlled by the iron-regulatory hormone Hepcidin. An excessive intake of iron supplements leads to a disturbance of balance and a whole range of unwanted effects.
Some of these side effects don't need medical attention, but if they intensify, consultation with a doctor is recommended. The most common iron supplement side effects can be:
1. General symptoms
These common symptoms often occur as a result of iron overdose. Patients usually complain of:
- Backache
- Chest pain
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue and weakness
- Chills
- Increased sweating
- Fast heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Metallic taste
2. Darkening of urine or stool
It is not unusual for urine and stool to appear dark after taking iron. It is not a harmful side effect. Once the treatment is stopped, both urine and stool will return to normal.
3. Constipation
More than 10% of patients using iron tablets experience constipation. In many cases, regular exercise and balanced meals can help solve that problem.
4. Gastrointestinal irritation
As a consequence of excessive iron supplements intake, patients can suffer from vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, and stomach cramping. Taking pills with food will alleviate undesired effects.
5. Infection
The susceptibility to infections is increased when iron is overdosed. The human body needs iron to fight harmful bacteria. However, when levels of free iron are elevated, it has the opposite effect and stimulates the growth of bacteria, and it contributes to the appearance of infection.
6. Cancer
Without any doubt, iron overload can cause cancer in humans, especially colon cancer. There are many indications that blood donation in a large percentage reduces this risk.
How to Prevent Iron Supplements Side Effects?
Iron toxicity rarely occurs suddenly after accidental overdoses. More often this happens gradually when high-doses of supplements are taken for a long time. Under ordinary circumstances, it is not possible to detect more significant amounts of iron in the bloodstream because it is bound to proteins. In situations when the level of iron in the blood increases, it can cause cell damage. With careful dosing and adequate storage, the iron tablets side effects will be minimized.
Take the prescribed dose
Use supplements as directed, and keep the dose as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid other multivitamins within two hours before or after you take the iron to prevent severe side effects.
Take with food
Although it is recommended that supplements need to be taken on an empty stomach, some studies show that taking iron with food can reduce some of the side effects by controlling the speed of its absorption. However, if problems with the digestive tract occur, it is recommended taking the tablets in combination with food.
The way of taking
Before swallowing, try to chew the tablet or dissolve it in the mouth. Keep in mind that an extended-release capsule shouldn't be crushed or opened. Mix a powder or liquid supplement with fruit juice or water. Use the dosing syringe or spoon to measure liquid medicine.
Proper storage
Keep supplements in the original container and away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Since liquid can be easily frozen, avoid storing them in the freezer. Please keep them in the refrigerator or a colder room in the house, preferably in the kitchen.
What to avoid when taking iron tablets
Taken in combination with certain foods, iron supplements can lose much of their value. Therefore, at least two hours after and one hour before taking iron, avoid:
- Milk and dairy products, especially yogurt and cheese
- Eggs
- Tea and coffee
- Spinach
- Cereals and whole-grain bread
Take calcium supplements
They shouldn't be used in combination with iron supplements. To get the full benefit from both supplements, allow at least two hours between taking each of them.
Length of application
Iron supplementation can last up to six months to maintain recovery from anemia. After that period, it is necessary to talk to the doctor to prevent the occurrence of severe adverse effects due to the long-term intake of iron in the body.
Summary
The only cure for patients who suffer iron-deficiency anemia is taking supplements. Be aware that after using, iron tablets side effects can occur. Therefore, follow the instructions for dosing and storage of these medicines. Consult a doctor if the follow-up effects become severe or prolonged.