Ferrous Fumarate
Also known as: Galfer, Ferrous sulfate, Iron tablets
What it's for
Ferrous fumarate is an iron supplement. It treats iron deficiency anaemia, which can make you feel tired, weak, and short of breath. Iron helps your blood carry oxygen.
Comes as: Tablets, capsules, or liquid
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 210mg (one tablet) 2 or 3 times a day.
- Take on an empty stomach for best absorption, or with food if it upsets your stomach.
- Vitamin C (orange juice) helps absorption.
- Your doctor will tell you how long to take it.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Stomach pain or feeling sick
- Black stools (this is normal and harmless)
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Take 2 hours away from antacids, calcium, or some antibiotics
- Keep out of reach of children - iron overdose is dangerous for them
- Tell your doctor if you have stomach or bowel conditions
Get medical help urgently if…
- A child has swallowed iron tablets - seek emergency help immediately
- You have severe stomach pain or vomiting blood
- You have difficulty breathing
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.