Learn More About FERAPRO®

1. What is FERAPRO®?

Discover the Excellence of FERAPRO®

FERAPRO® isn’t just another iron supplement; it's a meticulously crafted solution to overcome common barriers in iron supplementation. With a blend of five synergistic ingredients, FERAPRO® delivers therapeutic doses of iron with minimal side effects. This advanced formula ensures superior absorption, exceptional comfort, and consistent, reliable results.

Unlock Your Full Potential

Iron deficiency isn’t merely an inconvenience—it’s a barrier to your best self. Iron fuels nearly every system in your body, making it essential for clear thinking and decisive action. Whether you're a student aiming for top grades, an athlete with big dreams, or a professional striving for success, optimal iron levels are your key to excellence.

Break Free from Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia can drain your energy, fog your mind, and disrupt your ambitions. Many women stop taking iron supplements due to side effects like nausea, upset stomach, and constipation, leading to incomplete treatment and ongoing iron deficiency. FERAPRO® addresses these challenges with a gentle, effective formula that minimizes side effects, helping you stay on track and achieve optimal iron levels.

Reclaim Your Vitality

Don't let iron deficiency hold you back. Choose FERAPRO® today and take the first step toward renewed energy and peak performance. Live your life to the fullest with FERAPRO®.

2. Why Choose FERAPRO®?

FERAPRO® stands out as an iron supplement designed to enhance your well-being by addressing the common challenges of iron supplementation. Its unique formulation ensures you can achieve optimal iron levels without the usual discomfort. Here's why FERAPRO® is the right choice for you:

Trusted by Experts Endorsed by a wide range of healthcare professionals, FERAPRO® has a proven track record as a reliable choice for combating iron deficiency anemia. Its effectiveness and gentle formula make it a preferred recommendation among experts.

A History of Excellence From its beginnings as a local compounding solution to becoming a nationally recognized product, FERAPRO® has been trusted by women across Canada for years. It has evolved to meet the highest standards, maintaining its reputation for excellence.

Superior Formulation Crafted to minimize side effects such as nausea, upset stomach, and constipation, FERAPRO® ensures better adherence and results. Its unique 5-in-1 blend includes iron, vitamin C, glycine, and biologically active forms of Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) and folate (5-MTHF), supporting optimal iron absorption and red blood cell production.

Enhanced Absorption The inclusion of Vitamin C in FERAPRO® boosts iron absorption up to 10 times through the enzyme duodenal cytochrome b (DCYTB), ensuring you get the maximum benefit from each dose.

Clean and Allergen-Free Formula With only one non-medicinal ingredient, FERAPRO® is free from unnecessary fillers, binders, dyes, preservatives, and flow agents. It's vegan and free from common allergens such as gluten, soy, dairy, and corn, making it suitable for those with sensitivities.

Personalized Dosing Available in three strengths —30 mg, 75 mg, and 150 mg of elemental iron per capsule—FERAPRO® allows you and your healthcare provider to tailor the dosage to your specific needs, ensuring optimal results.

Take the First Step Towards Better Health With FERAPRO®, you can finally address your iron deficiency and unlock your full potential. Whether you're balancing a demanding job, managing a family, or pursuing your studies, FERAPRO® helps you think clearly, act decisively, and perform at your best.

3. What’s in FERAPRO®?

FERAPRO® features a meticulously crafted formula with five medicinal ingredients and one non-medicinal ingredient, each chosen to enhance patient outcomes. The ingredients include Iron (from Ferrous Fumarate), Vitamin C (from Ascorbic Acid), Glycine, Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin), and Folate (as S-MTHF). The non-medicinal ingredient is Hypromellose. It is vegan, free of soy, dairy, corn, and gluten.

Ingredient FERAPRO® 30 (Low Dose) FERAPRO® 75 (Medium Dose) FERAPRO® 150 (High Dose)
Elemental Iron (from Ferrous Fumarate) 30 mg 75 mg 150 mg
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) 175 mg 175 mg 350 mg
Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) 1000 mcg 1000 mcg 1000 mcg
S-MTHF (Folate) 80 mcg 80 mcg 80 mcg
Glycine 100 mg 100 mg 100 mg
Non-Medicinal Ingredient: Hypromellose Yes Yes Yes

Medicinal Ingredients:

1. Iron (from Ferrous Fumarate)
Ferrous iron, the more bioavailable form of non-heme iron, is more effective than ferric iron found in polysaccharide iron formulations. Proven to be the most effective form for treating iron deficiency anemia.

2. Vitamin C (from Ascorbic Acid)
Enhances iron absorption through the enzyme duodenal cytochrome b (DCYTB), increasing absorption by up to 10 times.

3. Glycine (as an Amino Acid)
Enhances iron absorption and reduces common side effects like nausea and constipation.

4. Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin)
Methylated form ensures utilization by those with genetic mutations affecting methylation. Supports healthy red blood cell production and provides an energy and cognitive boost.

5. Folate (as S-MTHF)
Methylated form of folate crucial for red blood cell production. Beneficial for individuals with genetic mutations that impede the conversion of precursor vitamins.

Non-Medicinal Ingredient:

Hypromellose
Plant-sourced, long-chain fiber that serves as the capsule material, ensuring a clean formulation free of unnecessary additives.

4. Which Dose of FERAPRO®is Right for Me?

If you have signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, it's essential to speak with your healthcare practitioner for a proper diagnosis. Your practitioner will likely order blood work, including a serum ferritin test, which is the most common way to assess your iron stores. Based on your ferritin levels, treatment history, and other unique health factors, your practitioner will recommend the most appropriate dose of FERAPRO® for you.

General Guidelines for Adults:

Serum Ferritin (ug/L) Iron Status Recommended FERAPRO® Dose
<15 Diagnostic of iron deficiency 150 mg elemental iron
15-30 Probable iron deficiency 75 mg elemental iron
30-100 Possible iron deficiency 30 mg elemental iron
>100 Normal iron stores Iron supplementation not required

FERAPRO® Dosages:

  • FERAPRO® 150: For severe iron deficiency, providing 150 mg of elemental iron per capsule.
  • FERAPRO® 75: Moderate dose for those who need treatment but are sensitive to high doses, providing 75 mg of elemental iron.
  • FERAPRO® 30: Maintenance and prevention dose for high-risk patients or those with suboptimal ferritin levels, providing 30 mg of elemental iron.

Please note that this information is not medical advice but rather a reflection of typical dosages for similar situations. Always consult with your healthcare practitioner, as they have your complete medical history and can recommend the appropriate dose tailored to your needs.

Take control of your health and discuss FERAPRO® with your healthcare provider today. Discover the right dose for you and start your journey to renewed vitality and well-being.

5. How to Take FERAPRO®

Once you've been diagnosed with iron deficiency and have chosen the appropriate dose of FERAPRO® in collaboration with your healthcare practitioner, follow these practical tips to maximize your supplementation's effectiveness:

Taking FERAPRO® for Best Absorption:

  • On an Empty Stomach: Take 1 capsule of FERAPRO® on an empty stomach with a full glass of water at the same time every day for optimal absorption. If you experience gastrointestinal side effects, take it with food. It's best to try taking it on an empty stomach for maximum absorption, but if you are hypersensitive to iron, taking it after food can help avoid unpleasant side effects.
  • Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks: To optimize absorption, avoid calcium supplements, antacids, dairy products, fiber-rich meals, tea/coffee, eggs, and leafy greens 1 hour before and 2 hours after taking FERAPRO®.

Managing Side Effects:

  • Constipation: If you experience constipation, consider taking FERAPRO® 30 or 75, which are recommended for patients prone to side effects. Try dosing every other day to minimize side effects and speak to your pharmacist about a suitable laxative.

Interactions with Other Medications:

  • Spacing: Take FERAPRO® 2 hours apart from medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, quinolone antibiotics, levodopa, methyldopa, levothyroxine, and penicillamine to avoid absorption issues.

Dosage Frequency:

  • Once Daily: Do not take iron supplements more than once daily to avoid reduced absorption and increased side effects. FERAPRO® should be taken once daily or every other day.

For Patients Unable to Swallow Capsules:

  • Mixing: Mix the contents of a capsule with 30-50 mL of juice or water and drink through a straw to avoid teeth staining. Rinse your mouth with water afterward to avoid a metallic aftertaste.

By following these guidelines, you can maximize the effectiveness of FERAPRO® and ensure that your body absorbs the iron it needs to combat iron deficiency anemia. Regularly monitor your ferritin levels with your healthcare provider to track your progress and adjust the dosage as needed.

Start your journey to better health with FERAPRO®. Discuss your dosage and regimen with your healthcare provider today.

6. When Will I Feel Better?

Achieving long-term improvement in your health requires addressing and treating the underlying cause of iron deficiency. Follow these key steps to ensure you feel better:

Treat the Underlying Cause

  • Identify and Address the Root Cause: Work with your healthcare provider to diagnose and treat any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your iron deficiency.

Adjust Your Diet

  • Incorporate Iron-Rich Foods: Boost your iron intake with red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals. Pair these foods with vitamin C-rich items like citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli to enhance iron absorption.

Monitor Your Progress

  • Create a Monitoring Plan: Your doctor will tailor a plan to your needs. Here's a typical sequence of events to expect:
    • 3-7 Days: Increase in reticulocytes (immature red blood cells), indicating your body is starting to produce more red blood cells.
    • 2-4 Weeks: Increase in hemoglobin levels by 10-20 g/L, leading to gradual improvement in symptoms like fatigue and weakness.
    • 2-4 Months: Significant correction of anemia with the appropriate dosages, resulting in improved energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being.
    • 6-10 Months: Continued therapy to normalize iron stores as measured by ferritin levels, ensuring long-term health benefits.

Your doctor may order a hematology profile after 4 weeks and continue to monitor your progress every 6-12 months to ensure you are on track and to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

By addressing the underlying cause, adjusting your diet, and following your prescribed iron supplementation regimen, you can expect to see gradual and sustained improvements in your health and well-being.

Start your journey to better health with FERAPRO®. Consult your healthcare provider today.

7. Where Did FERAPRO® Come From?

The Journey of FERAPRO®: From Local Innovation to National Trust

In 1999, on Vancouver Island, a compounding pharmacist named Bob Mehr was approached by a local midwife seeking an iron supplement that could provide a high dose of iron without causing common side effects like constipation, which often led pregnant women to discontinue their supplements. Existing low-dose commercial supplements were well-tolerated but ineffective, while high-dose options were effective but intolerable for many.

Through dedicated research and some trial and error, Bob crafted an iron formula that struck the perfect balance. This creation quickly became known as "Bob's Iron Formula” among pregnant women referred to his pharmacy.

As word spread about this effective and well-tolerated iron supplement, more midwives began sending their patients to Bob's pharmacy. Naturopaths and local MDs started recommending it to their patients. From 1999 to 2018, this compounded formula helped thousands of patients through word of mouth alone, without any active marketing or promotion. Its reputation for efficacy and tolerability grew organically, creating a loyal following.

In 2018, recognizing the growing demand and the need to make the product accessible to women across Canada, "Bob's Iron Formula” was commercialized as FERAPRO® with Health Canada approval. This move ensured that the high-quality, effective iron supplement could reach a wider audience.

Since then, FERAPRO® has achieved nationwide distribution. It continues to be a trusted iron supplement, recommended by healthcare practitioners for its balance of high efficacy and minimal side effects. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue supporting women's health across Canada, helping you reclaim your energy and vitality.

Start your journey to better health with FERAPRO®. Consult your healthcare provider today.

8. Cautions and Warnings

Iron supplements are potent and should only be taken after consultation with your healthcare provider. For your safety and optimal experience, please follow these recommendations:

  • Consult Your Healthcare Practitioner: Always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any iron supplement.
  • Follow Recommended Dosage: Adhere to the dosage and regimen prescribed by your healthcare practitioner.
  • Treatment Duration: Follow the treatment duration recommended by your healthcare practitioner.
  • Monitor Your Progress: Regular blood tests are essential to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While FERAPRO® is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult your healthcare practitioner to ensure it's appropriate for you.
  • Existing Conditions: Consult a healthcare practitioner before using FERAPRO® if you have peptic ulcer disease, regional enteritis, or ulcerative colitis.
  • Possible Side Effects: Iron supplements may cause abdominal cramping, constipation, diarrhea, and/or vomiting in some individuals. If you experience constipation, consider every-other-day dosing and consult your pharmacist for a suitable laxative.
  • Iron Toxicity: Discontinue use and consult a healthcare practitioner if you experience symptoms of iron toxicity, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, hematemesis (vomiting blood), and diarrhea.
  • Keep Out of Reach of Children: There is enough iron in these supplements to cause serious harm to a child. Always keep them out of reach.

By following these precautions, you can safely and effectively use FERAPRO® to manage your iron deficiency.

Take the first step towards better health with FERAPRO®. Consult your healthcare provider today.

Learn More About Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)

1. What is Iron Deficiency?

Our health is the foundation upon which all our successes are built. Iron is one of the essential building blocks of this foundation, helping us perform at our best both mentally and physically. This vital mineral ensures our body is nourished with enough oxygen, impacting everything from head to toe.

Despite its critical role, iron deficiency remains the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, including in Canada. The lack of iron can ripple through every aspect of our lives, affecting our ability to work, study, and play effectively.

The average adult has 3 to 4 grams of iron in their body. While our diet provides us with iron, sometimes it's not enough. Iron requirements vary significantly depending on lifestyle and risk factors:

  • Pregnant Women: Need more iron to support their developing baby.
  • Vegetarians: Often find it challenging to consume enough iron through diet alone.
  • Athletes: Especially marathon runners, require more iron to meet the demands of their intense exercise routines.
  • Menstruating Women: Regularly lose blood, which can deplete iron stores.

When a person is iron deficient and continues to lose more iron than they can replenish, they may begin to show symptoms of iron deficiency anemia (IDA). This means the amount of iron in the body is too low to create enough healthy red blood cells, significantly impacting their quality of life.

Imagine waking up tired, struggling to focus, and feeling breathless after simple tasks. These are the daily realities for many dealing with iron deficiency.

But it doesn't have to be this way. With FERAPRO®, you can restore your iron levels and reclaim your vitality. Take the first step towards better health and enhance your life.

2. How Does Iron Deficiency Affect Me?

In our fast-paced world, we are constantly expected to perform at our best, both physically and mentally. Iron plays a crucial role in our ability to function optimally. When iron levels are low, it can lead to a host of undesirable outcomes that affect various aspects of our lives:

Decreased Academic Performance: Low ferritin levels, indicating insufficient iron stores, have been linked with lower academic grades in students compared to those with normal ferritin levels. This means that iron deficiency can hinder your ability to concentrate, retain information, and perform well in school.

Decreased Workplace Productivity: Iron deficiency anemia can negatively impact work performance. Studies have shown that restoring optimal iron levels through supplementation can lead to significant productivity gains, helping you stay focused, energetic, and efficient at work.

Decreased Mental and Emotional Health: Iron deficiency has been linked with various mental health issues throughout life. In children and adolescents, iron deficiency anemia is associated with mood disorders and ADHD. In adults, low ferritin levels have been connected to symptoms of depression, impacting overall emotional well-being.

Imagine feeling constantly fatigued, struggling to concentrate, and finding it hard to stay motivated. These are common struggles for those dealing with iron deficiency.

But you can change this. FERAPRO® can help restore your iron levels, allowing you to reclaim your energy, focus, and emotional balance. Don’t let iron deficiency hold you back.

3. How Does Iron Deficiency Cause Anemia?

Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen and carries it from the lungs to the rest of the body. Without enough iron, the body cannot produce sufficient hemoglobin.

As the body depletes its iron stores, leading to iron deficiency, this stage may not yet be classified as iron deficiency anemia. However, if the iron deficiency continues and depletes to the point where hemoglobin production is compromised, it progresses to iron deficiency anemia.

The Importance of Early Intervention

It's crucial to address iron deficiency before it develops into anemia. Those at high risk, such as pregnant women, vegetarians, and athletes, may experience suboptimal ferritin levels that aren't flagged in standard lab work but still impact their optimal function.

When iron deficiency progresses to anemia, it means there are not enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently throughout the body. This can lead to symptoms that significantly affect quality of life, including fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Understanding this progression underscores the importance of early detection and intervention. By maintaining healthy iron levels, you can prevent anemia and support overall well-being.

Don't wait until iron deficiency impacts your quality of life. FERAPRO® can help you maintain optimal iron levels and prevent the progression to anemia.

4. What Are Common Symptomsof Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anemia?

Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) can manifest through a variety of symptoms, impacting both your physical and mental well-being. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you take the necessary steps to address your iron levels and improve your quality of life.

Lowered Cognitive Functioning:

  • Iron deficiency can decrease attention span, mental acuity, and motor skills, significantly affecting academic performance.

Worsened Mood:

  • IDA has been linked to anxiety, depression, and irritability in both children and adults, impacting emotional stability.

Exercise Intolerance:

  • A lack of iron reduces the oxygen supply to muscles, causing early fatigue during exercise and lowering overall exercise capacity.

Lowered Resistance to Infection:

  • IDA is associated with weakened innate and adaptive immunity, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.

Hair Loss:

  • You may notice increased hair shedding while washing or brushing your hair, as the cells supporting hair growth receive less oxygen.

Restless Leg Syndrome:

  • Low iron levels are linked to restless leg syndrome, which can affect sleep quality and cause significant discomfort.

General Weakness and Fatigue:

  • The lack of oxygen to your brain and muscles means you may tire more easily, both mentally and physically, during routine activities.

Pale Skin and Lower Eyelids:

  • In iron deficiency anemia, the inside layer of your lower eyelid may appear pale instead of a healthy red color. Your skin may also become paler than usual.

Shortness of Breath:

  • With low oxygen levels due to IDA, your muscles may not receive enough oxygen to perform adequately. This can cause an increased breathing rate and shortness of breath.

These symptoms can severely impact your daily life, but there is a solution. FERAPRO® can help restore your iron levels, alleviating these symptoms and improving your overall well-being.

5. Who Is at Risk for IronDeficiency Anemia?

Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk due to increased iron loss, higher iron requirements, or decreased iron intake and absorption. Understanding these risk factors can help you identify if you might be at risk and take preventive measures.

Increased Iron Loss

  • Menstruation: Women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding are at a higher risk of losing significant amounts of iron regularly.
  • Regular Blood Donation: Frequent blood donors can deplete their iron stores over time.
  • Athletes: Those who engage in intense and frequent training may lose substantial amounts of iron through sweat.
  • Medications: Blood thinners and anti-inflammatories can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising, leading to iron loss.

Increased Iron Requirements

  • Children (Aged 0-5): Adequate iron is essential for proper brain and body development during early childhood.
  • Adolescent Girls and Women of Childbearing Age: Regular menstrual blood loss increases iron needs.
  • Pregnancy: The body's blood volume increases significantly during pregnancy to support the developing fetus, increasing iron requirements.

It's important to note that the average adult female requires 18 mg of dietary iron per day and up to 27 mg daily during pregnancy, whereas an adult male requires only 8 mg of dietary iron daily. This makes iron deficiency anemia more common in women.

Decreased Iron Intake and Poor Absorption

  • Vegetarian or Vegan Diets: Heme iron from meat is more absorbable than non-heme iron from plants. Vegetarians and vegans may struggle to consume enough iron-rich foods daily.
  • Poor Nutrition: Lack of iron-rich foods in the diet is a prevalent cause of iron deficiency globally.
  • Medications That Decrease Stomach Acidity: Medications like antacids and proton pump inhibitors, used for heartburn, reduce stomach acidity, which is necessary for iron absorption.
  • Certain Foods: Consuming tea, coffee, dairy, mineral supplements, seeds, nuts, legumes, and unprocessed whole grains with iron supplements can inhibit iron absorption due to compounds that bind with iron.

By recognizing these risk factors, you can better manage your iron intake and address potential deficiencies before they impact your health.

6. How Is Iron Deficiency Diagnosed?

Diagnosing iron deficiency accurately involves a combination of understanding symptoms and conducting specific blood tests. The primary diagnostic test for iron deficiency is the serum ferritin test which measures the amount of iron stored in your body. Here’s how the process works and what you need to know:

Serum Ferritin: The Diagnostic Test of Choice

Understanding Serum Ferritin: Serum ferritin is the standard test for estimating your body's iron stores. It's a simple blood test that provides a snapshot of how much iron is stored in your body. However, interpreting these results requires considering your overall health and symptoms.

Interpreting Results: While a serum ferritin level under 15 µg/L is diagnostic of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) based on lab values, symptoms of iron deficiency can appear even at higher levels. Optimal iron levels that support a good quality of life may vary from person to person. Your healthcare practitioner will assess your symptoms alongside your ferritin levels to recommend the best course of action.

Other Tests May Be Required

In addition to serum ferritin, other blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC), serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin saturation might be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and understand the extent of iron deficiency.

When to Speak to Your Healthcare Provider

Consultation and Symptoms: If you suspect iron deficiency, speak to your healthcare provider about your symptoms. They will likely order a blood test to measure your serum ferritin and other markers to confirm the diagnosis.

Comprehensive Evaluation: If iron deficiency anemia is not the primary cause of your symptoms, blood work can help identify other potential causes. It’s crucial to work with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive safe and effective treatment tailored to your needs.

Preventive Measures: Your healthcare practitioner may recommend iron supplementation even if your ferritin levels are above 15 µg/L, especially if your quality of life is affected by symptoms of iron deficiency anemia.

Serum Ferritin Levels and Iron Status

Serum Ferritin (µg/L) Iron Status
<15 Diagnostic of iron deficiency
15-30 Probable iron deficiency
30-100 Possible iron deficiency
>100 Normal iron stores

By working closely with your healthcare provider and understanding your ferritin levels in the context of your symptoms, you can effectively address iron deficiency and improve your overall health.

7. How Can I Fix Iron Deficiency Anemia?

Addressing and treating the underlying cause of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is crucial for achieving long-term improvement in your health. Here are the key steps to ensure you feel better:

Treat the Underlying Cause

Identify and address the root cause of your iron deficiency. Work with your healthcare provider to diagnose and treat any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your iron deficiency.

Adjust Your Diet

Incorporate iron-rich foods into your diet to boost your iron intake. This includes red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals. Pair these foods with vitamin C-rich items like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers to enhance iron absorption.

Supplement with Oral Iron

Your healthcare provider may recommend oral iron supplements to help restore your iron levels. FERAPRO® offers an effective solution with its gentle, well-tolerated formulation. Here’s a typical timeline for improvement when taking oral iron supplements:

Typical Sequence of Improvement:

  • 3-7 Days: Increase in reticulocytes (immature red blood cells) indicating your body is starting to produce more red blood cells.
  • 2-4 Weeks: Increase in hemoglobin levels by 10-20 g/L leading to a gradual improvement in symptoms like fatigue and weakness.
  • 2-4 Months: Significant correction of anemia with appropriate dosages resulting in improved energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being.
  • 8-10 Months: Continued therapy to normalize iron stores as measured by ferritin levels, ensuring long-term health benefits.

Consider Intravenous (IV) Iron if Necessary

If you do not respond adequately to oral iron supplements, discuss the possibility of intravenous (IV) iron with your healthcare provider. IV iron can be an effective alternative for those who have trouble absorbing oral iron or who need a rapid increase in iron levels.

Monitoring Your Progress

Your doctor will create a monitoring plan tailored to your needs. They may order a hematology profile after 4 weeks and continue to monitor your progress every 6-12 months to ensure you are on track and to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

By treating the underlying cause, optimizing your diet, and following your prescribed iron supplementation regimen, you can expect to see gradual and sustained improvements in your health and well-being.

8. What Types of Iron Supplements Are Available?

Iron supplements come in various forms, each with its unique benefits and challenges. Here's a breakdown to help you understand the options and why FERAPRO® stands out:

Heme Iron

  • Source: Found in meat
  • Absorption: Easily absorbed by the body.
  • Limitations: Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Non-Heme Iron

  • Ferrous Iron (Fe2+):
    • Source: FERAPRO® uses ferrous fumarate
    • Absorption: More bioavailable than ferric iron and efficiently absorbed by the body. Ferrous iron has the most evidence supporting its efficacy for treating iron deficiency anemia.
    • Benefits: Ferrous fumarate in FERAPRO® is highly effective and well-tolerated, minimizing common side effects.
  • Ferric Iron (Fe3+):
    • Absorption: Needs to be converted to ferrous iron before absorption, making it less effective.

Newer Iron Supplements

  • Types: Includes liposomal, polysaccharide iron complex, and heme iron polypeptide.
  • Claims: These newer formulations claim better absorption and fewer side effects.
  • Evidence: Limited evidence supports these claims. Studies suggest that ferrous salts, like those used in FERAPRO®, improve hemoglobin levels more effectively and resolve iron deficiency anemia in a higher proportion of patients.

Why FERAPRO®?

FERAPRO® uses ferrous fumarate, a well-established, effective form of iron that optimizes absorption and minimizes side effects. This makes FERAPRO® a superior choice compared to newer, less proven formulations. Here's why FERAPRO® is your best option:

  • Optimized Formulation: Ferrous fumarate is the more bioavailable form of non-heme iron and is supported by extensive clinical evidence.
  • Enhanced Absorption: Includes vitamin C to boost iron absorption up to 10 times through the enzyme duodenal cytochrome b (DCYTB).
  • Minimal Side Effects: Glycine reduces common side effects like nausea and constipation.
  • Tailored Dosing: Available in three strengths—30 mg, 75 mg, and 150 mg of elemental iron per capsule to suit individual needs.
  • Clean Formula: Only one non-medicinal ingredient, making it vegan and free of common allergens such as corn, soy, dairy, and gluten.

By treating the underlying cause, optimizing your diet, and following your prescribed iron supplementation regimen, you can expect to see gradual and sustained improvements in your health and well-being.