Ferrous sulfate
iron
What it isOral iron salt; iron-deficiency anemia.
Why this oneIt is the reference oral iron: cheap, effective and widely available, but no better tolerated than newer salts.
What limits it⚑ Constipation and nausea commonly end treatment; alternate-day use may improve absorption and tolerability. Pediatric overdose can be fatal.
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron supplementation (OTC; indication not stated in fetched section) | Adults & children ≥12 yrs | 1 tablet QD, preferably after a meal | 1 tablet QD | 1 tablet QD, or as directed by a physician |
| Iron supplementation (OTC) | Children <12 yrs | Consult a physician | — | — |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Swallow whole — do not chew or crush (enteric-coated to protect stomach)
- Take preferably after a meal
Available strengths
- tab 325 mg
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
Cost
Ferrous sulfate (IRON)
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/mo | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 325 mg | tab | 30 qd | not offered |
NADAC is a voluntary CMS survey of what retail community pharmacies pay for the drugs they stock. Ferrous sulfate is dispensed outside retail pharmacies, so it rarely appears on surveyed invoices.
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskGI intolerance; overdose is a leading pediatric poisoning
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Defining liabilityGastrointestinal intolerance; dangerous accidental pediatric overdose