Can I Take iron and calcium Together?

SUMMARY:

Oral iron and calcium reduce iron absorption when taken together, which can lower iron’s effectiveness; spacing doses apart (commonly about 2 hours) or taking iron with vitamin C can help. This combination is generally used with caution rather than avoided entirely, especially when treating iron deficiency.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Mechanism: calcium can bind to oral iron or compete for absorption in the gut, decreasing iron bioavailability. Timing: separate doses when possible (commonly ≥2 hours between iron and calcium-containing supplements, dairy, or antacids). Clinical significance: reduced iron absorption may impair treatment of iron-deficiency anemia if taken together chronically. Other considerations: taking iron with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) or on an empty stomach can improve absorption, but iron may cause GI upset; discuss monitoring (e.g., hemoglobin/ferritin) with your clinician if on long-term therapy.