Drug interactions
Carbonyl iron + Sodium citrate / citric acid
Severity: Minor
Carbonyl iron and Sodium citrate / citric acid: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Sodium citrate/citric acid raises gastric pH, which could reduce carbonyl iron dissolution. Citrate can however form soluble iron complexes that aid absorption, so the net effect is uncertain and probably small.
What this interaction means in plain words
Carbonyl iron and Sodium citrate / citric acid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Opposing effects: raised gastric pH reduces iron dissolution, while citrate may form soluble, absorbable iron complexes.
What to do
No specific adjustment is needed. Monitor iron indices if the alkalinizing agent is used long term.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Carbonyl iron
- Aluminum hydroxide + Carbonyl iron Moderate
- Baloxavir marboxil + Carbonyl iron Moderate
- Calcium acetate + Carbonyl iron Moderate
- Calcium carbonate + Carbonyl iron Moderate
- Calcium + Carbonyl iron Moderate
- Carbidopa-entacapone-levodopa + Carbonyl iron Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Carbonyl iron with Sodium citrate / citric acid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Carbonyl iron and Sodium citrate / citric acid have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Sodium citrate/citric acid raises gastric pH, which could reduce carbonyl iron dissolution. Citrate can however form soluble iron complexes that aid absorption, so the net effect is uncertain and probably small.
How serious is the interaction between Carbonyl iron and Sodium citrate / citric acid?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No specific adjustment is needed. Monitor iron indices if the alkalinizing agent is used long term.
What other medicines interact with Carbonyl iron?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Carbonyl iron with, for example, Aluminum hydroxide, Baloxavir marboxil, Calcium acetate. The full list is on the Carbonyl iron page.
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