On-the-spot blood ferritin testing in pharmacies.

Why ferritin testing matters in pharmacy?

Measuring ferritin helps identify iron deficiency early, enabling pharmacies to provide value-added services and guidance to the customers.

Why pharmacies should offer ferritin testing:

• Strengthen their role as community health and wellness hubs.
• Identify at-risk groups, such as women and older adults.
• Provide timely iron status checks to customers.
• Offer personalized supplements, advice, or referrals as needed.

How is ferritin measured?

• Sample: Small blood sample.
• Units: ng/mL (mcg/L).

Interpretation: Ferritin is often reviewed alongside hemoglobin and sometimes C-reactive protein (CRP) to differentiate iron deficiency from inflammation-related changes. Always follow the instructions for use (IFU) provided to your pharmacy or other health-related point-of-care business with the device and a test kit.

Ferritin testing with Igloo Reader Pro

The Igloo Reader Pro enables on-the-spot rapid immunoassay ferritin testing with a simple capillary blood sample. Results are available within minutes, making it easy to integrate into pharmacy workflows.

Benefits of ferritin testing with the Igloo Reader Pro for pharmacies:

• Deliver fast, accurate ferritin testing at the point-of-care.
• Easily integrate testing into routine pharmacy workflows.
• Expand preventive health services available in-store.
• Create new revenue streams through testing and follow-up support.

What are normal ferritin values?

In adults, normal ranges are typically 30–300 ng/mL for men and 20–200 ng/mL for women, though slight variations may exist depending on the laboratory or testing device. Levels within this range generally indicate adequate iron reserves, while values below or above may require further assessment to identify deficiency, overload, or other underlying conditions.

What are low and high ferritin levels?

• A very low ferritin level: <10 ng/mL strongly suggests iron-deficiency anemia.

• Low ferritin level: <30 ng/mL suggests iron deficiency.

• Very high ferritin values: >300 ng/mL in men, >200 ng/mL in women.

It is important to underline that many labs have slightly different guidelines and reference intervals, which should be taken into consideration while looking at the clinical context. The normal ranges may differ depending on age, sex, and other parameters.

In cases of low ferritin, pharmacies can provide guidance on potential iron-rich dietary sources and commonly recommended supplements, while always referring customers to a clinician for personalized evaluation and supplementation advice.

Why pharmacies should offer ferritin testing?

Incorporating ferritin testing with tools like the Igloo Reader Pro empowers pharmacies to provide quick, reliable iron status assessments for their customers. This helps detect iron deficiency early, improves customer care, and supports business growth through expanded health services.

Learn more about the Pharmacy Starter Kit >

Literature

• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements - Iron: Health Professional Fact Sheet. 

• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements - Iron: Consumer Fact Sheet.

• Mayo Clinic – Ferritin test. 
  

Disclaimer

This information is educational and does not qualify for a medical advice. Always use local reference ranges and consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.