Kidney Disease: Taking Iron for Anemia
Kidney Disease: Taking Iron for Anemia
Your body needs plenty of iron to make red blood cells. Because of this, most people who take epoetin alfa (EPO) need extra iron. EPO is the injection that people with kidney disease take to boost their red cells. Iron can be given in pill form or by IV. Some people receive it both ways.
Take iron as directed
If you take iron pills, follow these tips:
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Take iron pills as often as directed. Do not skip doses.
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Take iron between meals if you use phosphate binders at mealtime. If taken together, the iron can get caught by the binder and won't be absorbed.
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Eat high-fiber foods to help control constipation. Fresh fruits and vegetables that are low in potassium make good choices.
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Ask your healthcare provider about using a stool softener if constipation becomes a frequent problem.
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Talk with your healthcare provider if you begin to have stomach or intestinal upset.
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Iron pills can make your stools dark or black colored. This does not mean there is something wrong.
- Contact your provider if you have any questions or concerns
Updated:
June 05, 2019
Sources:
Erythropoietin for the anemia of chronic kidney disease among predialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients. UpToDate.
Reviewed By:
Walead Latif MD,Marianne Fraser MSN RN