What Causes Low Ferritin Level?

Posted on Fri, 18 Apr 2014

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

Fri, 18 Apr 2014 Answered on

Wed, 7 May 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Over a year ago I was told my hbg was below 10. I have taken fe since then and my ferritin is still low. Do you think I should see a hematologist or is my pcp doing the right thing?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Kindly provide the requested data... Detailed Answer: Hi my dear, Before running into final conclusions, I want to have a look at your blood work results to evaluate your condition better. I have noticed that you are reporting many diseases at your medical history. Can I have the names of medications you are currently taking? All these information would help me evaluate your current health situation and to give the best second opinion. Thank you! Dr.Albana

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

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (24 hours later)

I had colonoscopy and esophageal and stomach scope to detect any bleeding and none was found. I am on omeprazol, l-thyroxin, metformin, citalopram, welbutrin, atorvastatin, lisinopril, iron, and miralax, calcium and vit d. I have only had cbc, ferritin, and chemistries as well as liver panel. Liver panel and chemistries are normal. Cholesterol is currently normal. A1c is 6.2.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (16 hours later)

Brief Answer: Hypothyroidism&drugs you take might be the cause.. Detailed Answer: Hi back, Thank you for providing the requested data. As unfortunately, I was not able to receive any CBC report, I would say that usually, we consider "within acceptable range" the levels of hemoglobin up to 10 but non lower than 8. The lab reports do also contain the reference range of the lab where the CBC panel was carried out. That's why I need to have a look at your lab reports myself. I am happy that no source of bleeding was found during colonoscopy and upper endoscopy. Furthermore, suffering of hypothyroidism increases the chances to get low hemoglobin (anemia). The medications you are taking can also contribute to low hemoglobin: - metformin : lowers vit.B12, leading to low hemoglobin - omeprazole: if used for long term periods can decrease the absorption of iron from food, leading to iron-deficiency anemia (and low hemoglobin) - other drugs you are currently taking like wellbutrin, lisinopril, and citalopram can rarely cause low hemoglobin. Once again, I should have a look at your CBC panel first for better judgment. Take care! Dr.Albana

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