Can I take Iron supplements and Sedoxil together?

Why this happens

Iron can bind to certain medications in the digestive tract, forming a complex that is too large for the body to absorb properly. This reduces the amount of medicine that reaches your bloodstream.

What you should do

To ensure your medication works correctly, space the doses apart. Take your Sedoxil at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking your iron supplement.

Important precautions

Accidental overdose in children

Iron supplements are a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children. You must store this medicine in a secure place out of the reach and sight of children.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not use Sedoxil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can cause breathing difficulties, muscle weakness, and withdrawal symptoms in the baby.

Respiratory failure or sleep apnoea

Do not take Sedoxil if you have severe breathing problems or sleep apnoea, as it can dangerously depress your breathing.

Driving and operating machinery

Sedoxil causes drowsiness and impairs coordination. Do not drive or use tools until you know how it affects you, as your reaction times will be significantly slower.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking Sedoxil. Alcohol increases the sedative effects of the medicine, which can lead to dangerous levels of drowsiness, breathing difficulties, and loss of coordination.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking iron supplements. Chronic alcohol consumption can interfere with how iron is stored and processed in the liver, potentially increasing the risk of iron toxicity or liver strain.

Tea, Coffee, and Caffeine

Caffeine and tannins found in tea and coffee significantly reduce the amount of iron your body absorbs. You should avoid drinking these for at least 2 hours before or after taking your iron supplement.

Caffeine is a stimulant and can cancel out the calming, anti-anxiety effects of Sedoxil. High intake of caffeine may make the treatment less effective.

Dairy products (Milk, Cheese, Yoghurt)

Calcium in dairy products prevents iron from being absorbed properly. Avoid consuming dairy for at least 2 hours before or after your dose.

Eggs and Whole Grains

Compounds in eggs (phosphoprotein) and whole grains (phytates) can interfere with iron absorption. It is best to take iron on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

Vitamin C (Orange Juice)

Taking your iron supplement with a glass of orange juice or foods rich in Vitamin C is beneficial, as it helps your body absorb the iron more effectively.

Grapefruit Juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the levels of Sedoxil in your blood by slowing down how your body breaks it down. This increases the risk of side effects like extreme sleepiness. Avoid grapefruit products while taking this medicine.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.