## Mistake 1: Incorrect determination of the type of anemia If the diagnosis of iron deficiency [anemia](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=1) is correct, then there is sure to be an improvement from iron preparations. If treatment fails, however, the doctor should consider an alternative course of treatment. A poor course of treatment can lead to iron overload in the organs and tissues. ## Mistake 2: Improperly chosen medication The doctor should always take into account the patient's concomitant diseases, such as ===malabsorption syndrome, gastrointestinal diseases, and others since they interfere with the normal absorption of drugs. You should also observe the body's reaction to the medication. If unwanted side effects occur — such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea — you should immediately inform your doctor so the treatment can be adjusted. ## Mistake 3: Incorrect dosage of the drug Iron preparations are not well absorbed or tolerated. The doctor should choose doses individually for the patient, taking into account his or her medical history as well as test results, age, and weight. ## Mistake 4: Limited duration of medication Generally, to normalize the level of hemoglobin and red blood cells, it is necessary to take iron preparations for a long time — even for weeks or months. Patients often quit taking them as soon as their hemoglobin level reaches a normal level. However, recovery from iron deficiency is considered to be the replenishment of iron in the depot and the elimination of tissue sideropenia (absolute anemia) — which is indicated by the normalization of serum ferritin levels, not hemoglobin. ## Mistake 5: Modifying course of treatment Following the prescribed course of treatment and all rules of medication is of fundamental importance. Skipping medications, unauthorized cancellation or substitution leads to loss of effectiveness. ## Mistake 6: Not following the diet Anemia cannot be cured by medication alone. It is important to adhere to a diet prescribed by a doctor and avoid foods and drinks that interfere with the absorption of iron. These include milk and all dairy products, cakes, nuts, alcohol, fatty meats, sausages and smoked meats, and strong tea and coffee. A doctor or nutritionist will be able to provide more info. ## Mistake 7: Taking iron preparations with antagonists Iron is not compatible with all medicines and vitamins. You should not take it with antibiotics, antacids, or medications that treat gastritis as these interfere with the absorption of iron vitamins [B12](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=215) and [E](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=66). It is also good to avoid supplements containing [calcium](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=127), [zinc](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=214), [chromium](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=65), and [magnesium](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=78).