Anemia Medicines

Anemia means your body does not have enough healthy red blood cells (or hemoglobin) to carry oxygen properly. Because of this, you may feel tired, weak, dizzy, or short of breath, and some people notice pale skin, headaches, a fast heartbeat, or hair loss. Anemia is common and can happen due to low iron, low vitamin B12 or folic acid, blood loss (heavy periods), poor diet, pregnancy, or long-term illnesses.

This category includes medicines and supplements used to help improve blood levels and treat common causes of anemia. The right treatment depends on the cause, so tests are important before choosing a medicine.

If anemia is left untreated, it can lead to persistent fatigue, poor concentration, reduced immunity, and weakness.

In severe cases, it can affect the heart and overall health. Correct treatment helps improve energy, stamina, and day-to-day functioning.

Common types of anemia

Iron deficiency anemia

Most common type. Happens when the body has low iron levels due to poor intake, blood loss, or increased need (e.g., pregnancy).

Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia

It can cause tiredness plus tingling/numbness in hands or feet, memory issues, or balance problems.

Folic acid deficiency anemia

Often linked to poor diet, pregnancy, or certain medicines.

Anemia of chronic disease

It may occur with kidney disease, infections, inflammation, or long-term health conditions.

Common symptoms

• Tiredness and weakness
• Dizziness or headache
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath on exertion
• Fast heartbeat
• Cold hands and feet
• Hair fall or brittle nails (common in iron deficiency)

Tests doctors may suggest

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)
• Hemoglobin (Hb)
• Iron studies: ferritin, serum iron, TIBC
• Vitamin B12 and folate levels
• Stool test (if blood loss is suspected)
• Tests for thyroid/kidney disease if needed

Medicines you may find in this category

Iron supplements

Used to increase iron stores and hemoglobin.

Vitamin B12 supplements

Tablets or injections based on deficiency and severity.

Folic acid supplements

Often used in deficiency and during pregnancy (as advised).

Combination supplements

Iron + folic acid + B12, or iron with vitamin C for better absorption (depends on product).

Special anemia treatments

In selected cases (like kidney disease), doctors may prescribe other treatments such as erythropoietin.

Important notes for safe use

• Take iron as advised. It can cause nausea, constipation, dark stools, or stomach upset.
• Do not self-treat long-term without tests, because anemia can be due to causes that need different treatment.
• If you have severe weakness, chest pain, fainting, or very low hemoglobin, seek medical care quickly.

Explore Anemia medicines

Browse this category to find options for iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, and blood health support, and choose based on your test results and medical guidance.