Iron pills (oral iron)
- Usually tried first.
- Taken by mouth at home; available without a prescription.
- Your gut absorbs a little at a time, so refilling stores can take months.
- Stomach upset, constipation and nausea are common, and some people find them hard to keep taking.
IV iron
- Given into a vein, in a clinic, under medical supervision.
- Needs an appointment and a referral from your doctor.
- Some people get short-lived aches, headache or a low fever afterwards; uncommon but serious allergic reactions are why it is given under medical supervision.
When doctors consider IV iron
When pills aren't absorbed, cause side effects you can't manage, or aren't suitable for you — for example with some gut conditions. It's a clinical decision with your doctor; neither option is right for everyone.
If you're taking pills now
Keep a record of your ferritin over time. If it isn't rising after weeks to months of taking your pills as directed, that's useful information to bring to your doctor.