Carbonyl iron is an iron replacement product. You normally get iron from the foods you eat. Iron helps your body produce red blood cells that carry oxygen through your blood to tissues and organs.

Carbonyl iron is used to treat or prevent iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia.

Carbonyl iron may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use carbonyl iron if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• a stomach ulcer or ulcerative colitis;
• hemochromatosis;
• hemolytic anemia; or
• anemia that is not caused by iron deficiency.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you do not have an iron deficiency. Carbonyl iron is generally not for use by people who have a normal iron balance.

Carbonyl iron tablets may contain milk. Tell your doctor if you have lactose intolerance or a milk allergy.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are breast-feeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 12 without medical advice.

Use Iron Chews (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects may include:

• diarrhea, constipation;
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
• tooth discoloration; or
• dark-colored bowel movements.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Avoid taking carbonyl iron within 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take other medicines. Carbonyl iron can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines.