Widely Sold iron Supplements Found too Contain Minimal Iron,Raising Health Concerns
Australians seeking to address iron deficiencies may be unknowingly purchasing supplements with negligible amounts of the essential mineral,prompting calls for greater regulatory oversight.
A growing number of patients, including those with kidney failure requiring dialysis, are being prescribed or self-treating with “iron supplements” that contain as little as 5mg of elemental iron per dose – an amount comparable to that found in a single serving of cornflakes. This revelation, brought to light by a clinical pharmacy specialist, underscores a critical gap in the regulation of over-the-counter supplements and the potential for misleading marketing practices.
“Useless” and “Ineffective” Products Proliferate
The issue came to the attention of Dr. Geraldine Moses, a doctor of clinical pharmacy specializing in drug data, after a nurse shared concerns about patients relying on these low-dose products. “It came as no surprise to me,” Moses stated, “given the proliferation of what I describe as ‘useless’ and ‘ineffective’ iron products.” These tablets, powders, liquids, and even expensive “iron-infused” water are readily available in supermarkets, pharmacies, and online retailers.
The core problem lies in the marketing of these products, which often implies they can effectively treat iron deficiency despite containing minimal amounts of the mineral. Some products are even marketed as “gentle on the stomach,” a claim Moses attributes to the lack of substantial iron content. “There’s barely any iron in them,” she explained.
Vulnerable Populations at Risk
The implications are particularly concerning for individuals at higher risk of iron deficiency, such as women experiencing heavy menstruation or pregnancy. “If [a woman] goes to the shops and picks up a product that says it’s an iron supplement and there’s almost bloody nothing in it, her iron deficiency won’t get any better,” Moses warned. Patients undergoing kidney dialysis, who often require iron supplementation due to the disease’s impact on red blood cell production, are also potentially affected.
Calls for Stronger Regulation
The concerns are shared by Professor Jennifer Martin, president of the Royal Australian college of Physicians, who echoed Moses’ call for the Therapeutic Goods Management (TGA) – Australia’s drug regulator – to strengthen its oversight of supplements. “Many iron supplements are considered ‘food-supplements’ or ‘listed medications’ by the TGA and, as such, there’s much less of a requirement to prove their efficacy compared to prescription-only or ‘registered’ medications,” Martin explained.
Martin, a senior physician and clinical pharmacologist, suggested an immediate solution: doctors should specify the exact product they want patients to use when prescribing iron, and patients should clarify with their doctor if they are unsure. However, she emphasized the need for “better regulatory oversight of supplements and the way they are marketed” in the long term.
Recommended Daily Intake vs. Product Reality
The Australian Red Cross lifeblood recommends a daily intake of 100-200 mg of elemental iron for individuals with iron deficiency anemia, which can be taken in separate doses. However, the association’s website notes that over 100 iron-containing preparations are available in Australia, with few containing a therapeutic dose. It specifically advises against multivitamin-mineral supplements due to their low elemental iron content (frequently 5 mg or less) and the potential for other ingredients to hinder absorption.
Moses noted that several of the low-dose products causing concern are already regulated as medicines, raising questions about the TGA’s current standards. “It does not make sense for the TGA to permit these products to make claims that they prevent iron deficiency or call themselves iron supplements,” she asserted.
TGA Response and Future Outlook
A spokesperson for the TGA acknowledged the concerns but indicated that the agency is “not planning such activity at this time” regarding minimum therapeutic dose requirements or enhanced oversight of low-dose iron supplements. This response has fueled calls for greater transparency and accountability from the regulator.
Martin stressed the need for increased regulation of pharmacies and greater transparency regarding the sponsorship of products gaining TGA registration. “We need better ways to ensure peopel know the differences between treatments backed by evidence and those that aren’t – particularly what information pharmacies should be giving people about this and when people need to speak to their doctor.”
What to Do If You’re Concerned about Iron Intake
Experts recommend the following steps for individuals concerned about their iron levels:
- Always consult with a GP for testing and personalized advice, considering potential interactions with medications, absorption issues, and underlying health conditions.
- Individuals with iron deficiency typically require 150mg to 200mg of elemental iron daily. Always check the product label for the amount of elemental iron per dose.
- Be aware that many iron supplements are classified as “food-supplements” or “listed medications” by the TGA, requiring less stringent efficacy proof.
- Look for products with an AUST R number if diagnosed with iron deficiency or anemia, indicating full evaluation by the TGA for safety, quality, and efficacy.
- Seek product recommendations from your GP.
