Table 2.

Oral iron formulations.

Formulations	Accessibility to therapy and possible side effects
Ferrous ascorbate	Affordable and readily accessible but often associated with gastrointestinal side effects.
Ferrous fumarate	Affordable and readily accessible but often associated with gastrointestinal side effects.
Ferrous gluconate	Affordable and readily accessible but often associated with gastrointestinal side effects.
Ferrous sulfate	Affordable and readily accessible but often associated with gastrointestinal side effects.
Polysaccharide‐iron complex	With a reduced likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort and a more favorable taste profile.
Carbonyl iron	Cost‐effective with no discernible advantage in terms of efficacy or side effects when compared.
Iron proteinsuccinylate	There are some data suggesting potential improvements in tolerability and efficacy compared to ferrous salts. However, it is unsuitable for individuals with hypersensitivity to milk protein.
Iron amino acid chelates (ferrousbisglycinate, ferrictrisglycinate)	Less prone to dietary interactions but potentially higher in cost compared to ferrous salts.