What interactions do iron supplements have?
Antacids (such as aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and calcium carbonate): These medications can reduce the absorption of iron supplements, so it's best to take them at least 2 hours apart.
Calcium: Calcium can also reduce the absorption of iron supplements, so it's best to avoid taking them together. If you must take calcium and iron supplements, take them at least 2 hours apart.
Dairy products: Dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, can also reduce the absorption of iron supplements. It's best to avoid consuming dairy products within 2 hours of taking an iron supplement.
Coffee and tea: Coffee and tea contain tannins, which can reduce the absorption of iron supplements. It's best to avoid consuming coffee or tea within 2 hours of taking an iron supplement.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C can help increase the absorption of iron supplements, so it's a good idea to take them together.
Thyroid medications (such as levothyroxine): Iron supplements can interfere with the absorption of thyroid medications, so it's important to take them at least 4 hours apart.
Bisphosphonates (such as alendronate, risedronate, and ibandronate): These medications can reduce the absorption of iron supplements, so it's best to take them at least 2 hours apart.
Quinolone antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin): These antibiotics can reduce the absorption of iron supplements, so it's best to take them at least 2 hours apart.
Tetracycline antibiotics (such as doxycycline and minocycline): These antibiotics can also reduce the absorption of iron supplements, so it's best to take them at least 2 hours apart.
Proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole, esomeprazole, and lansoprazole): These medications can reduce the absorption of iron supplements, so it's best to take them at least 2 hours apart.