What it is
Iron supports hemoglobin and oxygen transport. Supplemental iron can correct deficiency, but fatigue and anemia can have causes that are not improved by taking more iron.
Evidence basis: Human clinical evidence
At a glance
What it is, why people use it, the evidence, and what to know before trying it.
Why people use it
- Correction or prevention of iron deficiency when indicated
Evidence at a glance
Iron is useful when indicated for deficiency or increased requirements. It is not a general energy enhancer for iron-replete people; an unspecified product supplies no reliable dose or treatment duration.
Confidence: strong
Safety & interactions
Known side effects, interactions and use limits from reviewed sources.
Iron can cause constipation and nausea; overdose is dangerous, especially to children. Avoid unsupervised use with iron overload. It can interfere with levothyroxine and levodopa absorption.
Forms and variants
This review does not automatically apply to:
- Intravenous iron
- Proferrin
- A specified iron blend
Seen in protocols
Public protocols that include Iron supplement (form unspecified). Open one to see the full context and source.
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