31st July 2023

A 72-year-old man presents with fatigue and lethargy. He was found to have iron deficiency anaemia several years ago

A 72-year-old man presents with fatigue and lethargy. He was found to have iron deficiency anaemia several years ago, but is fully compliant with daily ferrous fumarate, and his last haemoglobin was in the normal range. However, bloods today reveal a microcytic anaemia with low ferritin. He recently started taking multivitamin tablets on the advice of his nephew.

Which component of the multivitamin may be impairing iron absorption?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.