More info on Iron supplements..
Interactions
Iron forms an insoluble complex with several other drugs, resulting in decreased absorption of both iron and the other drug. Examples include tetracycline, penicillamine, methyldopa, levodopa, bisphosphonates and quinolones. The same can occur with elements in food, such as calcium. Absorption of iron is better at a low pH (an acid environment), and resorption is decreased if there is a simultaneous intake of antacids, phosphates, etc.

Tannins from foods, such as tea and saw palmetto, reduce absorption of iron.

Taken after a meal, there are fewer side effects but there is also less absorption because of interaction and pH alteration. Generally, an interval of 2-3h between the iron intake and that of other drugs seems advisable.

adding my comments - don't know everyone's age - but after menopause you don't need as much iron - I'm told excess iron is stored in the body and apparently you can have too much - also noticed more hair loss with not much growth when I was smoking - stopped almost 10 years ago now and hair grew and is still growing - would say the constructed blood vessles in the scalp had something to with that - taking C and haven't noticed any difference other then needing to wash my hair more often -

31, from what I can tell I'm not near menopause, and just quit smoking about 1 month ago!

Been on Copaxone since May 08. Maybe my body's just going 'what the HECK?!' with all the changes this year?

I had horrible hair loss but from Rebif! I'm talking bald patches. I too had every level known to man checked. Now my once think hair is so thin its ridiculous!

I'll be 38 in December, so not menopause for me yet.

No menopause for me in sight either, anemia runs in my family, so unfortunately I may need iron even after menopause....