What is the Brand Name for Iron Supplements? A Guide to Top Brands and Formulations

November 29, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the World Health Organization, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional disorder worldwide. When dietary intake isn't enough, supplements become necessary, and finding the right one often starts with the question: what is the brand name for iron supplements? The answer is not a single product, but a range of brands offering different formulations.

Quick Summary

There is no single brand name for all iron supplements, as many different companies manufacture them. Popular examples include Slow Fe and Feosol (ferrous sulfate), Fergon (ferrous gluconate), and brands like Nature Made and Solgar.

Key Points

No Single Brand: There is no single universal brand name for iron supplements; many different brands and formulations exist.
Common Iron Forms: Popular supplements include ferrous sulfate (Slow Fe, Feosol), ferrous gluconate (Fergon), ferrous fumarate (Ferretts Iron), and chelated iron (Nature Made, Solgar).
Absorption and Side Effects: Forms like ferrous sulfate can cause more GI upset, while chelated iron (bisglycinate) is designed for better absorption and fewer digestive issues.
Boost Absorption: Taking iron with Vitamin C and avoiding inhibitors like coffee or dairy can significantly improve absorption.
Consult a Doctor: Always consult a healthcare provider before starting iron supplements to ensure you get the right form and dosage for your needs.

Understanding the Different Types of Iron

Before looking at specific brands, it's crucial to understand that not all iron supplements are the same. The primary difference lies in the form of iron compound used, which affects absorption, elemental iron content, and potential side effects. The most common forms are ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous fumarate, alongside newer, often gentler, chelated forms like iron bisglycinate.

Ferrous Sulfate

Ferrous sulfate is one of the most widely available and frequently recommended forms of oral iron, known for its effectiveness and low cost. However, it is also associated with a higher incidence of gastrointestinal side effects like constipation and nausea compared to other forms. The elemental iron content in ferrous sulfate is approximately 20% by weight.

Common ferrous sulfate brand names include:

Slow Fe
Feosol Original
Fer-In-Sol
Feratab

Ferrous Gluconate

Often recommended as a gentler alternative to ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate has a lower elemental iron content (around 12%) but may cause less stomach upset. This can be a significant benefit for those who experience sensitivity to other forms of iron.

Common ferrous gluconate brand names include:

Fergon
Ferate
Simron

Ferrous Fumarate

With one of the highest elemental iron contents (approximately 33%), ferrous fumarate can be an efficient option for replenishing iron stores quickly. Like ferrous sulfate, it can cause gastrointestinal side effects.

Common ferrous fumarate brand names include:

Ferretts Iron
Femiron
Hemocyte

Chelated Iron (Iron Bisglycinate)

Chelated iron, such as iron bisglycinate, is a newer formulation where the iron is bonded to an amino acid. This chelated form is designed for superior absorption and is considerably gentler on the digestive system, making it an excellent choice for those who struggle with constipation from other iron supplements. Brand examples include Solgar Chelated Iron, NOW Iron, and Nature's Bounty Gentle Iron.

Polysaccharide Iron Complex

This form of iron contains a high amount of elemental iron and is sometimes advertised as being gentle on the stomach, though evidence on its superior tolerability can vary. An example brand is NovaFerrum.

Comparison of Common Iron Supplement Types


Feature	Ferrous Sulfate	Ferrous Gluconate	Chelated Iron (Bisglycinate)
Elemental Iron (%)	~20%	~12%	Varies, high bioavailability
Common Side Effects	High potential for constipation, nausea	Lower potential for GI upset	Very low potential for GI upset
Absorption Rate	Good	Moderate	Excellent (designed for high absorption)
Example Brands	Slow Fe, Feosol	Fergon, Ferate	Nature's Bounty Gentle Iron, Solgar

Tips for Choosing and Taking Iron Supplements

Consult a Healthcare Professional: Always speak with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a new supplement, as they can help diagnose the cause of low iron and recommend the most appropriate type and dosage.
Consider Stomach Sensitivity: If you have a sensitive stomach, opt for a chelated or gentle iron formula to minimize side effects like constipation and nausea.
Enhance Absorption: Taking your iron supplement with a source of Vitamin C (like a glass of orange juice) can significantly increase its absorption.
Avoid Interfering Foods and Medications: Certain foods, such as dairy products, coffee, and tea, can hinder iron absorption. Similarly, some medications, including antacids and antibiotics, should be taken at least 2 hours before or after your iron supplement.
Follow Dosing Instructions: Do not take more than the recommended dose. Iron overdose is dangerous, especially for children.

Popular Iron Supplement Brands in Different Categories

Beyond the specific compound, different brands cater to unique needs. For example, prenatal vitamins often include iron alongside other nutrients like folic acid, with brands like Nature Made Prenatal Multi + DHA providing this combination. Liquid iron supplements, such as Floradix Iron and Herbs, are also available for those who prefer not to swallow pills and can offer gentle, easily absorbed options. Athletes and vegetarians may also seek specific brands optimized for their unique dietary needs.

Conclusion

There is no single brand name for iron supplements; instead, a vast marketplace of options exists, each with its unique characteristics. The best choice depends on your specific health needs, tolerance for potential side effects, and guidance from a healthcare professional. By understanding the different types of iron—like ferrous sulfate (Slow Fe, Feosol), ferrous gluconate (Fergon), and chelated iron (Nature Made Gentle Iron)—you can make an informed decision to effectively address an iron deficiency.

For More Information

For more detailed information on specific iron formulations, you can visit the comprehensive database provided by Drugs.com on its 'Iron Products' page. This can provide more in-depth data on various compounds and their branded offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common form of iron supplement is ferrous sulfate, which is widely available under various brand names, including Slow Fe and Feosol.

'Gentle iron' supplements typically use a different form of iron, such as chelated iron (iron bisglycinate), which is formulated for better absorption and fewer gastrointestinal side effects like constipation, making it gentler on the stomach.

The best iron supplement for anemia depends on the individual, but common options include ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate, and ferrous gluconate. Chelated forms may be better for those with stomach sensitivity. A doctor should determine the most suitable option.

Yes, taking your iron supplement with a source of Vitamin C can enhance the body's absorption of the iron. This is especially helpful for improving the efficacy of the supplement.

Traditional iron salts, like ferrous sulfate, can be harsh on the digestive system and cause side effects such as constipation. Newer, chelated forms are often used to mitigate this issue.

No, it is best to avoid taking your iron supplement with milk or other dairy products. Calcium in dairy can interfere with the absorption of iron. Instead, take it with water or juice.

Yes, there are several liquid iron supplement brands available. An example is Floradix Iron and Herbs, which provides a gentle, easily absorbed option for those who prefer not to take tablets.