General Dosage
18-65mg elemental iron daily for deficiency correction; 8-18mg for maintenance
Maximum dose: 45mg/day elemental iron for adults (NIH UL); therapeutic doses up to 65mg under medical supervision
Iron Dosage Guide
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Dosage Recommendations
General recommendation: 18-65mg elemental iron daily for deficiency correction; 8-18mg for maintenance
Timing: On an empty stomach for best absorption; with vitamin C to enhance absorption; avoid with tea, coffee, dairy, or calcium within 2 hours
Dosage by Condition
| Condition | Recommended Dose | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Iron-deficiency anemia | 65mg elemental iron 1-2x daily | Strong |
| Non-anemic iron deficiency | 25-45mg elemental iron daily or every other day | Strong |
| Pregnancy | 27-60mg elemental iron daily per WHO guidelines | Strong |
| Athletic performance | 25-45mg daily for iron-depleted athletes | Moderate |
Upper limit: 45mg/day elemental iron for adults (NIH UL); therapeutic doses up to 65mg under medical supervision
Timing & Absorption
On an empty stomach for best absorption; with vitamin C to enhance absorption; avoid with tea, coffee, dairy, or calcium within 2 hours
Can be taken with or without food.
References
- Vaucher P, Druais PL, Waldvogel S, Favrat B (2012). Effect of iron supplementation on fatigue in nonanemic menstruating women with low ferritin: a randomized controlled trial. CMAJ. DOI PubMed
- Stoffel NU, Cercamondi CI, Brittenham G, et al. (2017). Iron absorption from oral iron supplements given on consecutive versus alternate days and as single morning doses versus twice-daily split doses. The Lancet Haematology. DOI PubMed
- Pasricha SR, Tye-Din J, Muckenthaler MU, Swinkels DW (2021). Iron deficiency. The Lancet. DOI PubMed