Iron Deficiency
Low iron stores, which can cause tiredness, breathlessness and anaemia. Common with heavy periods, pregnancy and low-iron diets.
Treatment options
Ratings show how strong the research is.
- Strong evidenceIron tabletsThe usual first step. Most people need at least 3 months, then a repeat blood test.
- Strong evidenceIron infusionA drip lasting 15 to 30 minutes, then a short wait. For when tablets don’t work or aren’t tolerated, for poor absorption, later pregnancy, or when iron is needed quickly. A headache, aches or flushing for a day or two are common. Rarely, iron leaking from the drip causes permanent brown skin staining, so report stinging or swelling at once. It can lower phosphate, causing tiredness or bone pain, mainly after repeat infusions.
- Strong evidenceTreat the causeFor example heavy periods, coeliac disease, or bleeding from the gut. Essential in men and after menopause.
- Moderate evidenceEvery second dayTaking iron every other day is absorbed better and causes fewer side effects than daily dosing for many people.
- Moderate evidenceEmpty stomachAbsorption is best away from food. Keep tea, coffee, milk, calcium and antacids at least 2 hours away.
- Limited evidenceVitamin C with tabletsA 2020 trial found no added benefit.
What you can do
- Eat iron-rich foods: red meat, chicken, fish, eggs, legumes, tofu and iron-fortified cereals.
- Expect dark stools. Constipation and an upset stomach are common.
See your GP if
- Black or bloody stools, or a change in bowel habits
- Weight loss you can’t explain
- No better after a few weeks of treatment
Call 000 for chest pain, severe breathlessness or fainting.
Evidence and more information
- Healthdirect: Iron deficiency
- Lifeblood: Iron deficiency
- Healthdirect: Iron infusion
- Australian Prescriber: Skin staining from iron infusions
maladywise.com/iron/