Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin. Iron deficiency anemia develops when the body does not have enough iron to make red blood cells. Iron supplements can be purchased without a prescription. Iron comes in many salt forms. Ferrous salts are better absorbed than ferric salts.
Ferrous sulfate is the cheapest and most commonly used iron salt.
Some products contain vitamin C to improve iron absorption. But, these products are more expensive and may be poorly absorbed. Most side effects with iron supplements are dose related. Products that are better tolerated may do so because they provide less iron. Iron is used to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia .