Which iron tablets have folic acid and B12?

January 9, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the World Health Organization, more than 40% of pregnant women worldwide are anemic, often due to deficiencies in iron and folic acid. This highlights the importance of finding effective supplements that contain these key nutrients. So, which iron tablets have folic acid and B12 for comprehensive blood health?

Quick Summary

Several iron supplements contain a combination of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, which are crucial for healthy blood cell formation and preventing anemia. Key options include Vitabiotics' Feroglobin and Ultra Iron, along with certain prenatal vitamins. The presence of additional nutrients like vitamin C can further enhance iron absorption.

Key Points

Combine Nutrients: Iron, folic acid (B9), and vitamin B12 are critical for red blood cell production, so combined supplements address multiple deficiencies at once.
Gentle on the Stomach: Look for slow-release formulations or iron bisglycinate to minimize common side effects like constipation and stomach upset.
Enhance Absorption: Supplements containing vitamin C help increase the body's absorption of iron, maximizing the supplement's effectiveness.
Common Brands: Several brands offer these combined formulas, including Vitabiotics Feroglobin and Ultra Iron, Iberet Folic-500, and Nutrifactor Fero.
Medical Advice is Key: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements, especially during pregnancy, to ensure proper dosage and suitability.
Check for Co-Factors: Many supplements include other beneficial ingredients like zinc and copper that further support blood health and immune function.

Understanding the Need for Combined Iron, Folic Acid, and B12

Iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 are three cornerstone nutrients critical for the production of red blood cells and maintaining overall health. Iron is a central component of hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen throughout the body. Folic acid and vitamin B12 are B-vitamins that play vital roles in cell division and maturation of red blood cells. A deficiency in any of these can lead to different types of anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. Combining them in a single supplement can be highly effective, especially for individuals with multiple deficiencies, such as pregnant women or those with specific dietary restrictions.

Why these nutrients work together

Red Blood Cell Formation: Both folic acid (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12 are essential for the synthesis of DNA, a process vital for creating new, healthy red blood cells.
Anemia Prevention: Iron deficiency leads to iron-deficiency anemia, while a lack of folic acid or B12 can cause megaloblastic anemia. A combination supplement tackles both potential issues simultaneously.
Enhanced Absorption: Some combined formulations include vitamin C, which significantly boosts the body's absorption of iron.

Popular Iron Tablets with Folic Acid and B12

Many well-known brands offer iron supplements that include folic acid and vitamin B12. It's important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, as the required dosages can vary based on individual needs.

Vitabiotics Feroglobin: A popular UK brand, Feroglobin capsules and liquid formulas often contain a blend of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, along with other supporting nutrients like zinc. It's formulated for slow release to be gentle on the stomach.
Vitabiotics Ultra Iron: Specifically designed for comprehensive support, Ultra Iron tablets balance iron with vitamin B12, folic acid, and vitamin C for maximum effectiveness and absorption.
Iberet Folic-500 (Abbott): A multivitamin and iron product used to treat or prevent deficiencies, particularly during pregnancy. It contains ferrous sulfate, vitamin C, niacinamide, calcium pantothenate, and B-vitamins, including B12 and folic acid.
Nutrifactor Fero: Available in capsules and syrup, Fero is a dietary supplement containing gentle iron, vitamin C, vitamin B12, and folic acid to help boost energy and reduce fatigue associated with iron deficiency.
HealthAid Haemovit Plus: These capsules are formulated with iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, and other nutrients to support healthy blood cell formation and a strong immune system.

Comparison Table of Common Iron Supplements with B12 and Folic Acid


Brand/Product	Key Features	Iron Form	Additional Nutrients	Notes
Vitabiotics Feroglobin	Slow-release, gentle on the stomach	Ferrous Fumarate	Folic Acid, Vitamin B6, B12, Zinc, Copper	Good for sensitive stomachs.
Vitabiotics Ultra Iron	Sustained-release formula	British Pharmacopoeia Quality Iron	Folic Acid, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C	Maximizes iron absorption.
Iberet Folic-500	Often prescribed during pregnancy	Ferrous Sulfate	Folic Acid, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Niacinamide	Comprehensive for deficiency treatment.
Nutrifactor Fero	Gentle iron formula for better absorption	Not specified (Gentle Iron)	Folic Acid, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C	Suitable for energy boosting.
HealthAid Haemovit Plus	Supports healthy blood and immune function	Not specified	Folic Acid, Vitamin B12, Zinc, Copper	Ideal for those with poor nutrition.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Selecting the right iron supplement depends on various factors, including your specific health needs and tolerability. Here are some points to consider:

Form of Iron: Different forms of iron have varying absorption rates and side effects. For example, iron bisglycinate (as found in some chelated formulas like Ferrochel) is often better absorbed and gentler on the stomach than ferrous sulfate.
Dosage: The amount of elemental iron, folic acid, and B12 varies widely between supplements. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate dosage based on your blood test results and specific condition, such as pregnancy.
Absorption Aids: Look for supplements that include vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption, or special delivery systems that allow for gradual release and better tolerance.
Dietary Needs: Vegetarians, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses have different nutritional requirements. Some supplements are specifically tailored for these groups.

Conclusion

For those seeking comprehensive support for red blood cell health, there are many iron tablets that have folic acid and B12. Popular options include Vitabiotics' Feroglobin and Ultra Iron, as well as products like Iberet Folic-500 and Nutrifactor Fero. Combining these three essential nutrients is a highly effective way to address deficiencies and support overall vitality. As with any medical decision, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best supplement and dosage for your individual needs. By considering factors such as the type of iron, dosage, and additional cofactors like vitamin C, you can make an informed choice for your health. For further reading, consult the World Health Organization's guidelines on iron and folic acid supplementation during pregnancy.

Potential side effects and precautions

Gastrointestinal Distress: Iron supplements are known to cause stomach upset, constipation, or diarrhea. Slow-release formulas or gentle iron forms like bisglycinate may minimize these effects.
Interactions with Medications: Iron can interfere with the absorption of certain medications, including some antibiotics and thyroid hormones. It's important to space out your supplement and medication intake as advised by a doctor.
Accidental Overdose: Iron can be toxic in high doses, especially for children. Always store iron supplements out of the reach of young children.

List of Key Components in Effective Supplements

Iron: Essential for hemoglobin production and oxygen transport.
Folic Acid (B9): Crucial for DNA synthesis and new cell formation.
Vitamin B12: Supports red blood cell maturation and neurological health.
Vitamin C: Significantly enhances the absorption of non-heme iron.
Zinc and Copper: Often included as cofactors for overall blood health.

Where to find combined supplements

Combined iron, folic acid, and B12 supplements are widely available. You can find them at local pharmacies, health food stores, and online retailers specializing in dietary supplements. Always check the label to confirm the inclusion of all three key nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Folic acid and vitamin B12 are combined with iron because all three nutrients are essential for the production of healthy red blood cells. A deficiency in any of them can cause anemia, so combining them in one supplement provides comprehensive support for blood health.

Yes, many prenatal vitamins are formulated with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 to meet the increased needs during pregnancy. Examples include Iberet Folic-500 and Vitabiotics Feroglobin. It is crucial to consult with a doctor before taking any supplement during pregnancy.

Gentle iron, often in the form of ferrous bisglycinate, is a chelated form of iron that is more easily absorbed and less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects like constipation compared to other forms, such as ferrous sulfate.

Vitamin C increases the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plants and supplements) from the stomach. Taking iron with vitamin C can therefore maximize its effectiveness.

While many multivitamins contain iron, folic acid, and B12, the dosages may not be sufficient to treat a diagnosed deficiency. For anemia or significant deficiencies, a targeted iron supplement with these combined nutrients is often more effective.

Taking iron supplements with food can help reduce stomach irritation and improve tolerability. However, certain foods and drinks, like tea, coffee, and calcium, can inhibit iron absorption, so it's best to avoid them around the time you take your supplement.

Symptoms of deficiencies can include persistent fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and headaches. A blood test is the only definitive way to confirm deficiencies, so always consult a doctor if you suspect you may need supplementation.