What kind?

Iron in preparations comes in two forms — bivalent and trivalent. Bivalent iron is absorbed into the body quickly and efficiently, allowing for a relatively short time to compensate for anemia. Trivalent iron is slower and much less absorbed. However, it has fewer side effects and is generally better tolerated by the body, so sometimes it is better to take it slow.

How much?

Doses of drugs are prescribed individually, depending on the intensity of anemia and tolerability. As a rule, an appropriate dosage is 80-100 mg of iron per day, broken down into 2-3 doses. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease — on average, this is 2-6 months.

When should it be taken?

For better absorption and to reduce side effects, it is better to take iron preparations before meals. However, if you experience unpleasant symptoms such as nausea or gastrointestinal problems, you should discuss the schedule of intake with your doctor.

How should it be taken?

It is extremely important to consider the compatibility of iron with foods, vitamins, and trace elements, as some of them completely block its absorption.

• Iron is incompatible with milk and all dairy products, including fermented dairy products.
• Eggs, nuts, cereals, strong tea, and coffee should also be taken at intervals of two or more hours before and after taking iron.
• Avoid medications like antibiotics, tetracycline, levomycetin, antacids, and others that are used in the treatment of gastritis.
• During treatment avoid supplements containing calcium, zinc, chromium, and magnesium. Vitamins B12 and E absolutely prevent the absorption of iron.
• Vitamins A and C, on the contrary, help to fight anemia.

26 April 2022