Iron Gummies

1. Wipe or rinse out the mouth.
2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
3. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.

Quick Facts About Iron Gummies

Iron is a nutrient found in food and is very important for health. The body needs it for red blood cell production, immune function, energy levels, and brain function. Good sources of iron include red meat, beans and legumes, nuts, and leafy greens. 

Not eating enough iron can cause iron-deficiency anemia. Symptoms may include weakness, pale skin, heart palpitations, cold hands and feet, and shortness of breath. Treatment includes a healthy diet and iron supplements.

Iron supplements come in capsules or tablets, liquids, and sometimes gummies. Gummy iron supplements are the least common because iron doesn’t mix easily with gelatin. Iron gummies often contain a lower dose than pills or liquids. Additionally, iron may also be found in some adult and children’s multivitamins, as well as prenatal multivitamins.

Iron supplements can cause side effects like belly pain, cramping, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation. Taking iron supplements with food may decrease stomach upset. Avoid eating dairy products or taking antacids with iron supplements, because they can decrease iron absorption. Iron comes in different forms and may be listed under many names on the label, such as ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, and others. Check with your doctor to find the best formulation for you.

Iron Overdose

Large doses of iron can be dangerous. Iron was the leading cause of poisoning deaths for children from 1983 to 1990. Thankfully, iron poisoning in children has decreased due to changes in packaging, the addition of warning labels, and public education. But iron poisoning is still a concern, especially for young children. Child-resistant closures on medication bottles can decrease the risk of accidental poisoning, but young children are still capable of opening these bottles. Therefore, medications should be locked, stored up high, and out of sight of children. 

Symptoms of Iron Poisoning  

The first symptoms of iron poisoning include belly pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms may be delayed up to 6 hours after overdose. As symptoms continue, there may be blood in vomit or stool along with drowsiness and lethargy. Serious poisoning may cause low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, fever, coma, and shock. Overdose can also damage the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

Treatment of iron poisoning includes drawing blood to monitor iron levels and organ function. IV fluids may be necessary, as well as other medications for nausea and blood pressure. An antidote called deferoxamine (DFO) can be used for life-threatening symptoms. However, the antidote can also be dangerous, so it is only used for serious toxicity.

If you find someone has eaten a small amount of iron gummies, do not panic. Wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink. Call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. The poison center is open all day, every day, for poisoning emergencies and questions.

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