Ferrosolve®, High Potency by NBI is a targeted iron supplement formulated to correct iron deficiency, a condition affecting over 1.2 billion people globally [1]. The primary active ingredient, iron, is provided at 45 mg per serving, positioning it within the therapeutic range for treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in adults. This dose exceeds the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for most populations but aligns with clinical guidelines for IDA management, which recommend 100–200 mg/day of elemental iron, often divided into multiple doses.
The inclusion of glycine, while at a much lower dose (30 mg), may support iron metabolism indirectly through its role in heme synthesis and antioxidant pathways. However, the primary mechanism of action is driven by iron repletion. Oral iron supplementation remains a first-line approach for IDA, though gastrointestinal side effects and hepcidin-mediated absorption inhibition can limit efficacy. Alternate-day dosing may improve both absorption and tolerability [2]. Ferrosolve® is best used under medical supervision, particularly to confirm iron deficiency and rule out underlying causes such as gastrointestinal blood loss.
Quick Summary
All ingredient amounts are clearly disclosed with no proprietary blends, ensuring full transparency for informed use.
The 45 mg iron dose is sub-therapeutic as a single daily dose for IDA but may be effective when taken multiple times per day or every other day to optimize absorption. As a primary ingredient, it aligns partially with clinical needs, earning a moderate efficacy score.
The form of iron is not specified (e.g., ferrous sulfate, bisglycinate), limiting assessment of absorption. Non-heme iron generally has moderate bioavailability, which can be enhanced by dosing strategy and avoidance of inhibitors.
Safe for iron-deficient individuals when used as directed, but high-dose iron carries risks of GI side effects and interactions. Glycine at this dose is negligible. Not suitable for those with iron overload.
Suggested: 4 servings/day to reach clinical midpoint
Why Take This Product
Key Benefits
- Supports Hemoglobin Production: Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, and supplementation helps restore red blood cell function in iron deficiency anemia [1].
- Replenishes Iron Stores: Daily or alternate-day dosing with 45 mg of iron helps rebuild ferritin reserves, with treatment typically continued for 3–6 months after hemoglobin normalization.
- Addresses High Iron Needs: This dose is appropriate for individuals with increased requirements, such as those with chronic blood loss, pregnancy-related anemia, or poor dietary intake.
- May Improve Energy and Reduce Fatigue: Correcting iron deficiency can alleviate symptoms like fatigue and weakness, even in non-anemic individuals with low ferritin (functional iron deficiency).
- Supports Cellular Oxygenation: By enhancing iron availability, Ferrosolve® promotes efficient oxygen delivery to tissues, supporting metabolic and cardiovascular function.
Who Should Take This
Potential Side Effects
Ingredient Breakdown
The formulation centers on iron as the primary active ingredient, with glycine included in a supporting role. Iron is provided in a non-heme form (exact salt not specified), while glycine, an amino acid involved in heme and antioxidant synthesis, is present in a minimal amount.
Primary Ingredients
Iron
Essential mineral for hemoglobin synthesis, oxygen transport, and cellular metabolism
Dose is 45% of the clinical midpoint (150 mg). While below the typical therapeutic range, it may be effective as part of a multi-dose regimen or in responsive individuals. Non-heme iron form not specified; bioavailability may vary.
Iron is critical for preventing and treating iron deficiency anemia. At 45 mg per serving, it contributes significantly toward therapeutic goals, though higher or divided doses may be needed for full correction. Absorption is influenced by hepcidin, which can be minimized with alternate-day dosing [2].
Supporting Ingredients
There is 1 supporting ingredient.
Practical Recommendations
- Confirm Iron Deficiency Before Use: Serum ferritin and hemoglobin should be assessed prior to starting supplementation, especially in men and postmenopausal women, to rule out underlying pathology such as GI bleeding.
- Optimize Absorption: Take on an empty stomach or with vitamin C-rich foods; avoid calcium, antacids, tea, and coffee within 2 hours of dosing.
- Consider Dosing Frequency: Alternate-day dosing (e.g., every other day) may improve iron absorption and reduce side effects compared to daily intake [2].
- Monitor Response: Recheck iron studies after 2–3 months to assess response and adjust duration of therapy, continuing for several months after normalization to replenish stores.
Is it Safe?
Iron supplementation is safe when used appropriately in deficient individuals but carries risks of gastrointestinal distress and drug interactions. High doses without medical indication may lead to toxicity. Glycine at 30 mg is well below therapeutic levels and poses negligible risk.
Safety & Considerations
- Iron Toxicity: High-dose iron can be toxic in non-deficient individuals and children. Keep out of reach of children.
- Drug Interactions: Iron may reduce absorption of levothyroxine, quinolones, and tetracyclines. Separate doses by at least 2–4 hours.
- Underlying Conditions: Iron deficiency in adults, especially men and postmenopausal women, may indicate GI bleeding; rule out pathology before long-term use.
The Science
The efficacy of Ferrosolve® hinges on its 45 mg iron dose, which falls within the lower end of the therapeutic range for IDA. While full correction often requires 100–200 mg/day, this dose may be effective when taken multiple times daily or in responsive individuals. Alternate-day dosing may enhance absorption by minimizing hepcidin spikes.
Global prevalence of iron deficiency and its risk factors.
Alternate-day dosing improves iron absorption by reducing hepcidin.
Glycine (3 g/day) reduces serum uric acid in mild hyperuricemia.
Low-dose iron (20 mg/day) is effective in pregnancy with fewer side effects.
Intermittent vs. frequent oral iron dosing in children.
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