Is It Okay If My Iron Supplements Are Causing My Stool To Turn Dark Greenish-grey-brown?

Posted on Tue, 18 Sep 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 18 Sep 2018 Answered on

Sat, 23 Apr 2022 Last reviewed on

Question : Is it ok if my iron supplements are causing my stool to turn dark greenish-grey-brown? The internet is giving conflicting answers.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Raju.A.T (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Its ok

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Yes, it is completely normal to get dark green or brown stools on taking iron supplement. Even the smell of stools may be metallic during those times.

There is no need to worry.

If you are getting only black tarry stools, then a concern to rule out acid peptic ulcers in the upper GI tract is what should be considered.

It is always good to take Oral Antacids for a week when you are starting iron supplements.

Hope, I answered your query. Wish you good health.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar