What is the Difference Between Carbonyl Iron and Ferrous Sulfate?

Carbonyl iron and ferrous sulfate are both forms of iron supplements, but they differ in their bioavailability, absorption rate, and potential for toxicity with overdose. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Bioavailability: Carbonyl iron has a higher bioavailability than ferrous sulfate, meaning it is more slowly absorbed and has less potential for toxicity with overdose.
2. Iron Content: Carbonyl iron contains 98-100% high purity iron, while ferrous sulfate has 20% high purity iron. This means that a smaller amount of carbonyl iron can provide the same amount of iron as a larger dose of ferrous sulfate.
3. Absorption Rate: Carbonyl iron is more slowly absorbed than ferrous sulfate, which may result in fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
4. Side Effects: Carbonyl iron has a greater safety margin than ferrous sulfate formulations because it is more slowly absorbed and has less potential for toxicity with overdose. Common side effects of carbonyl iron include nausea, vomiting, upper abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, dark stools, heartburn, urine discoloration, dental stain, and iron overload in organs and tissues (hemosiderosis).

In summary, carbonyl iron is a more slowly absorbed and has a higher bioavailability than ferrous sulfate, making it potentially safer and more effective in treating iron deficiency anemia. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any iron supplementation to ensure the appropriate treatment for your specific needs.

Comparative Table: Carbonyl Iron vs Ferrous Sulfate

Carbonyl iron and ferrous sulfate are both iron supplements used to prevent low iron levels in the body. Here is a table comparing their differences:

Carbonyl iron has a higher iron content and is considered more efficient compared to ferrous sulfate due to differences in absorption, toxicity, and tolerance. While carbonyl iron is less toxic and better tolerated, ferrous sulfate is more quickly absorbed by the body. Ferrous sulfate is one of the most common forms of iron supplements, but it has a lower concentration of elemental iron compared to carbonyl iron.