When should Physiofer be used for red blood cells and fatigue?
Immubio Physiofer is an iron dietary supplement in oral suspension form, combined with vitamins B6 and B12. The iron is provided in the form of microencapsulated ferric pyrophosphate (Lipofer®), at a dose of 14 mg per day for adults. With a strawberry flavor and no metallic taste, it is suitable for both adults and children ages 3 and up.
Iron is a component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen. It contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin and to the normal transport of oxygen throughout the body. Vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 play a role in the same process: each contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells.
The three nutrients in the formula also share two other functions. Iron helps reduce fatigue, as do vitamin B6 and vitamin B12, and each of them supports the normal functioning of the immune system. Vitamin B12 also supports the normal functioning of the nervous system.
The liquid form is helpful for those who have difficulty swallowing tablets, and the half-dose allows the same bottle to be used for a child. For children, iron supports normal cognitive development. Physiofer thus supplements the iron intake from food for the whole family at mealtime.
For adults, we recommend combining it with Forte Pharma’s Liposomal Vitamin C. The two products play distinct roles: Physiofer provides iron, and vitamin C enhances iron absorption. One capsule per day is sufficient, and it contains no iron in its formula.
How should this oral iron suspension be taken?
Directions for Use
Adults: Take 5 ml daily with a meal, using the measuring cup. Children ages 3 to 17: Take 2.5 ml daily with a meal, using the measuring cup. Shake well before use.
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Precautions
- Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
- Dietary supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
- Not recommended for people with conditions that result in abnormal iron accumulation, such as hemochromatosis or polycythemia.
- Do not combine with any other dietary supplement containing iron (including multivitamins): the daily dose already meets the maximum amount of iron recommended in France for dietary supplements, for both adults and children.
- Iron supplementation should be monitored through blood tests to assess iron levels (ferritin).
- Not suitable for children under 3 years of age: at this age, any supplementation must be medically supervised.
- Take Physiofer at least 2 hours apart from the following medications: antibiotics in the cycline or fluoroquinolone classes, oral bisphosphonates, penicillamine, thyroid hormones (levothyroxine), antacids and gastric protectants containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. Iron reduces their absorption, or vice versa. If you are currently undergoing treatment, consult your pharmacist.
- Digestive disturbances (nausea, constipation, diarrhea) may occur with any oral iron supplement. If they persist, stop taking the medication and seek advice.
- Contains sucrose: diabetics should take this into account.
- Do not use if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, particularly sunflower lecithin or cornstarch.
- Keep out of reach of young children: ingesting large amounts of iron is dangerous for young children. In case of accidental ingestion, contact a poison control center immediately. Store the bottle tightly closed, away from heat.
What are the ingredients in this iron, B6, and B12 supplement?
Ingredients
Water, Sucrose, Maltodextrin, Microencapsulated Lipofer® (Corn Starch, Ferric Pyrophosphate, Sunflower Lecithin), Thickener: xanthan gum, strawberry flavoring, preservatives: sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6).
Nutritional Values of Physiofer
| Per daily serving |
Per 5 ml (adults) |
% DV* |
Per 2.5 ml (children) |
% DV* |
| Elemental iron (Lipofer®) |
14 mg |
100% |
7 mg |
50% |
| Vitamin B6 |
0.7 mg |
50% |
0.35 mg |
25% |
| Vitamin B12 |
1.25 µg |
50% |
0.625 µg |
25% |
* RDA: Recommended Daily Allowance.
Packaging
120-ml bottle of oral suspension with a measuring cup, providing a 24-day supply for an adult and a 48-day supply for a child.
Our expert advice on Physiofer for adults and children
Before opening the bottle, the most important thing to consider is cumulative intake. Iron is hidden in many products we don’t typically think of as “iron” sources: multivitamins, prenatal formulas, and “energy-boosting” supplements. At the counter, we always ask what’s already in your medicine cabinet, and that’s often where we find an additional source of iron that went unnoticed. Take a minute to review the nutritional information on your other supplements.
Fatigue has many causes, and iron addresses only one of them. A lack of sleep, a stressful period, or a lingering infection can’t be fixed with a bottle of iron. If fatigue persists after finishing the bottle, the right course of action is to get the blood test mentioned in the precautions, not to take a second bottle just because you think you should. This is even more true for children, where persistent fatigue warrants a doctor’s evaluation.
FAQ
Can I drink coffee or tea while taking Physiofer?
Tea and coffee reduce the absorption of the iron provided by Physiofer. It’s best to take it with a meal without tea or coffee, and to save those drinks for later in the day. Dairy products, which are rich in calcium, have the same effect and should also be consumed at a separate time.
Is it normal for my stools to turn black when taking Physiofer?
Yes. Dark or even black stools are common with oral iron supplements like Physiofer. This is not serious and will go away once you stop taking the supplement. However, if you experience black stools accompanied by abdominal pain or discomfort, you should seek medical advice promptly.
How long can I take Physiofer?
There is no set treatment duration for Physiofer. It should be determined with a healthcare professional, depending on the goal of supplementation. A treatment course is designed to have a start and an end, followed by a break to reassess, rather than continuous, unlimited use.