Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Iron therapy

Iron therapy replaces depleted iron stores to restore hemoglobin synthesis and correct iron deficiency anemia.

Iron therapy replaces depleted iron stores to restore hemoglobin synthesis and correct iron deficiency anemia. Used for Iron deficiency anemia, Iron supplementation in pregnancy, Iron deficiency due to chronic blood loss.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. When iron stores are depleted, the body cannot produce sufficient hemoglobin, leading to anemia. Iron supplementation replenishes these stores, enabling normal erythropoiesis and restoration of oxygen-carrying capacity.

Approved indications

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Iron supplementation in pregnancy
• Iron deficiency due to chronic blood loss

Common side effects

• Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, constipation, abdominal discomfort)
• Dark stools
• Epigastric pain
• Diarrhea

Key clinical trials

• Treatment of Hemochromatosis (PHASE2)
• Bevacizumab In Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (PHASE2)
• Adherence to Oral Therapies in Advanced Breast and Prostate Cancers (NA)
• Iron and Immune Response to Vaccine (IRONMUM) (NA)
• Effect of Intravenous Iron on Quality of Life in Older Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome (PHASE4)
• Nano-Carbon Iron Suspension Injection Combined With Radiotherapy for Solid Tumors Phase II Clinical Trial (PHASE2)
• Oral Versus Intravenous Iron for Anemia Diagnosed After 34 Weeks of Gestation (NA)
• A Study to Test the Safety, Tolerability, and Efficacy of an Antibody, REGN7999, Injected Under the Skin for the Treatment of Iron Overload in Adult Participants With Non-Transfusion Dependent β-thalassemia, Using MRI Scans to Measure Iron Levels in the Body (PHASE2)

Primary sources

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