How do you take Iron (Iron polymaltose)?

For the syrup or tablets, adults usually take 1-2 tablets or 10-20 ml of syrup once or twice daily, preferably during or right after meals to reduce stomach upset. Your doctor may adjust the dose depending on how low your blood level is. The injection form is given by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic, so do not inject yourself at home.

What are the side effects of Iron (Iron polymaltose)?

Dark or black-coloured stool (this is normal and harmless), stomach pain or discomfort, feeling like you want to vomit (nausea), constipation or difficulty passing stool, diarrhoea or loose stool

Who should not take Iron (Iron polymaltose)?

People who are allergic to iron polymaltose or any of its ingredients. People with iron overload conditions like haemochromatosis or haemosiderosis. People with anaemia that is not caused by iron deficiency (e.g. sickle cell anaemia, as iron supplements will not help and can be harmful). People with severe liver or kidney disease should consult their doctor first.

OTC

Iron supplement (Haematinic)

Iron

Q: What is Iron (Iron polymaltose) used for?

Iron deficiency anaemia (low blood level), low iron stores in the body, tiredness and weakness caused by low blood, heavy menstrual bleeding causing low blood, anaemia during pregnancy

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Iron polymaltose is a form of iron supplement that helps your body make more red blood cells and hemoglobin, which carry oxygen around your body. It is designed to release iron slowly, making it gentler on your stomach than some other iron supplements.

How it works

Replenishes depleted iron stores by providing ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) that is absorbed in the duodenum and proximal jejunum, where it binds to transferrin for transport to bone marrow and incorporation into haemoglobin synthesis. This restores oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells and corrects iron deficiency anaemia.

What is it used for?

Iron deficiency anaemia (low blood level)low iron stores in the bodytiredness and weakness caused by low bloodheavy menstrual bleeding causing low bloodanaemia during pregnancy

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Anaemia Pregnancy & Labour

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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What to watch out for

Buy your iron supplements only from reputable pharmacies; avoid roadside sellers or open market drugs, as fake iron products are common in Nigeria. Keep iron supplements far away from children, as accidental overdose of iron is one of the leading causes of poisoning in young children. Complete the full course your doctor prescribed even if you start feeling better, as it takes time to fully restore your iron levels.

Common Side Effects

Dark or black-coloured stool (this is normal and harmless)
stomach pain or discomfort
feeling like you want to vomit (nausea)
constipation or difficulty passing stool
diarrhoea or loose stool

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing
swelling of the face or throat
or rash all over the body: go to the hospital immediately. For the injection form
watch out for chest tightness
dizziness
or collapse during or shortly after the injection
and tell the nurse or doctor right away.

Drug Interactions

Do not take iron polymaltose at the same time as tetracycline or ciprofloxacin antibiotics; space them at least 2 hours apart, as iron reduces how well these drugs work. Antacids (like aluminium or magnesium-containing stomach drugs) can reduce iron absorption, so take them at different times. Taking iron with vitamin C (like orange juice) can actually help your body absorb the iron better.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Iron polymaltose is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and is commonly prescribed to pregnant women in Nigeria to treat or prevent anaemia, but always use it under your doctor's guidance.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to iron polymaltose or any of its ingredients. People with iron overload conditions like haemochromatosis or haemosiderosis. People with anaemia that is not caused by iron deficiency (e.g. sickle cell anaemia, as iron supplements will not help and can be harmful). People with severe liver or kidney disease should consult their doctor first.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in your car. Keep the bottle tightly closed after use. Always keep out of reach of children, as iron overdose in children can be very dangerous.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.