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Can I take Iron supplements and Vitamin b12 together?

Drug interaction guide

There is no harmful interaction between iron supplements and vitamin B12. In fact, they are often prescribed together because they work as a team to help your body produce healthy red blood cells.

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Why this happens

Iron and vitamin B12 are absorbed through different pathways in the digestive system and do not compete with or block each other. They have a 'synergistic' relationship, meaning they work together to treat different types of anaemia.

You can safely take these two supplements at the same time. To get the best results, take your iron supplement on an empty stomach (if your stomach can tolerate it) with a glass of water or orange juice, as vitamin C helps iron absorption. Vitamin B12 can be taken with or without food.

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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.

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Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 14 Mar 2026 | Originally published
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