Oral iron has been used throughout history. Sydenham is thought to have first introduced iron therapy for chlorosis in 1681,1 but it was later, in the early 19th century, that Pierre Blaud introduced ferrous sulfate in pill form.2 Its safety and efficacy have enabled countless people to overcome the morbidity of iron deficiency anemia. In those unusual conditions in which ongoing comorbid conditions are absent, blood loss mitigated, and lack of significant gastrointestinal adverse effects manifest, oral iron is very inexpensive, safe, and effective.