Supplies elemental iron for hemoglobin synthesis, correcting iron-deficient erythropoiesis.
Black Box Warning
Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6 — keep out of reach; overdose is a medical emergency.
Clinical Notes
First-line for iron-deficiency anemia. GI upset/constipation, dark stools; take with vitamin C on an empty stomach for absorption (separate from PPIs/calcium). Reticulocytosis in ~1 week confirms response.