How to properly take ferrous sulfate. What are the recommended dosages for adults and children. How to manage potential side effects of ferrous sulfate. When to seek medical attention for ferrous sulfate overdose.

Understanding Ferrous Sulfate: Uses and Formulations

Ferrous sulfate is a vital medication used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia. It comes in two primary formulations:

• 200mg tablets
• Liquid drops containing 125mg of ferrous sulfate per 1ml

The appropriate dosage depends on several factors, including the patient’s age, weight, and the specific condition being treated. It’s crucial to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions or the guidance provided with over-the-counter products.

Dosage Guidelines for Treating Anemia

For adults treating anemia, the typical dosage recommendations are:

• Tablets: One 200mg tablet daily, potentially increasing to 2-3 times daily
• Drops: 4ml, taken once or twice daily

For children, dosages are carefully calculated based on age, weight, and blood test results. Children aged 12-17 will have dosages based on age and blood work, while those under 12 will also have their weight factored into the calculation.

Can the dosage be adjusted for side effects?

Yes, if side effects occur, doctors may recommend taking the medication on alternate days to improve tolerability while still providing therapeutic benefits.

Preventive Dosages for Iron Deficiency Anemia

When used to prevent anemia, adults typically follow these dosage guidelines:

• Tablets: One 200mg tablet taken once daily
• Drops: 2.4ml to 4.8ml, administered once daily

As with treatment dosages, preventive doses for children are carefully calculated by healthcare providers based on individual factors.

Optimal Administration Techniques for Ferrous Sulfate

To maximize the effectiveness of ferrous sulfate, consider these administration guidelines:

1. Take on an empty stomach, ideally 30 minutes before eating or 2 hours after a meal
2. If stomach upset occurs, taking it with food is acceptable
3. Swallow tablets whole with water; avoid chewing or sucking
4. For enhanced absorption, consider taking with orange juice or vitamin C supplements
5. Avoid consuming with tea, coffee, eggs, or dairy products, as these can inhibit iron absorption
6. Maintain a 2-hour gap between ferrous sulfate and iron-rich foods

Are liquid drops easier for some patients?

Yes, liquid drops may be preferable for children and adults who have difficulty swallowing tablets. Always use the provided measuring device for accurate dosing.

Duration of Ferrous Sulfate Therapy

The length of ferrous sulfate treatment varies depending on the condition:

• For anemia prevention: Ongoing use as long as the risk of anemia persists
• For anemia treatment: Several months, typically 3-6 months after symptom improvement

Consistent use is crucial for building and maintaining adequate iron stores in the body.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses to compensate for a missed one.

Safety Precautions and Overdose Risks

Ferrous sulfate, while beneficial when used correctly, can be dangerous if taken in excessive amounts. Keep the medication out of reach of children, as overdoses can be fatal. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

What are the symptoms of ferrous sulfate overdose?

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Severe vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• In serious cases: blood in vomit, seizures, or loss of consciousness

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms after taking ferrous sulfate, contact emergency services immediately.

Managing Common Side Effects of Ferrous Sulfate

While many people tolerate ferrous sulfate well, some may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Darkened stools

How can I alleviate constipation caused by ferrous sulfate?

To manage constipation:

1. Increase fiber intake through diet or supplements
2. Stay well-hydrated
3. Engage in regular physical activity
4. Consider using a gentle laxative, after consulting with your healthcare provider

Interactions and Contraindications

Ferrous sulfate can interact with various substances, potentially affecting its absorption or efficacy. Key interactions to be aware of include:

• Calcium-rich foods and supplements
• Certain antibiotics
• Antacids
• Thyroid medications

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and significant dietary habits to avoid potential interactions.

Can I take ferrous sulfate if I have a sensitive stomach?

If you have a sensitive stomach, discuss alternative iron formulations with your doctor. Options like ferrous gluconate or iron bis-glycinate may be gentler on the digestive system.

Monitoring and Follow-up During Ferrous Sulfate Therapy

Regular monitoring is essential to ensure the effectiveness of ferrous sulfate treatment and to adjust dosages as needed. This typically involves:

• Periodic blood tests to check iron levels and hemoglobin
• Assessment of symptoms improvement
• Evaluation of any side effects

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate frequency of follow-ups based on your individual case.

How long does it take to see improvements in anemia symptoms?

While individual responses vary, many people begin to notice improvements in energy levels and other anemia symptoms within a few weeks of starting ferrous sulfate therapy. However, it may take several months to fully replenish iron stores.

Special Considerations for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Pregnant and breastfeeding women often have increased iron requirements. Ferrous sulfate can be safely used during pregnancy and lactation when prescribed by a healthcare provider. However, dosages and administration may need to be adjusted to accommodate the unique needs of these populations.

Is additional folic acid supplementation necessary with ferrous sulfate during pregnancy?

Many healthcare providers recommend folic acid supplementation alongside ferrous sulfate for pregnant women to support fetal development and prevent neural tube defects. Always consult with your prenatal care provider for personalized recommendations.

Ferrous sulfate plays a crucial role in managing iron deficiency anemia, a condition affecting millions worldwide. By understanding proper dosing, administration techniques, and potential side effects, patients can maximize the benefits of this important medication while minimizing risks. Regular communication with healthcare providers ensures optimal management of iron deficiency and promotes overall health and well-being.

How and when to take ferrous sulfate

If you or your child are prescribed ferrous sulfate, follow a doctor’s instructions about how and when to take it.

If you buy ferrous sulfate from a pharmacy, follow the instructions that come with the packet.

Dosage and strength

Ferrous sulfate comes as 200mg tablets, or as drops containing 125mg of ferrous sulfate in 1ml.

Your dose of ferrous sulfate depends on why you’re taking it and whether you take tablets or drops.

Dose to treat anaemia

The usual dose for adults is:

• tablets – one 200mg tablet usually once a day, but it may be 2 to 3 times a day. If you get side effects your doctor may advise you to take it on alternate days
• drops – 4ml, taken once or twice a day

For children aged 12 to 17 years, the doctor will use your child’s age and blood results to work out the right dose of ferrous sulfate. For children under 12 years old, the doctor will also use your child’s weight to work out the right dose.

Dose to prevent anaemia

The usual dose for adults is:

• tablets – one 200mg tablet, taken once a day
• drops – 2.4ml to 4.8ml, taken once a day

For children aged 12 to 17 years, the doctor will use your child’s age and blood results to work out the right dose of ferrous sulfate. For children under 12 years, the doctor will also use your child’s weight to work out the right dose.

How to take it

Ferrous sulfate works best when you take it on an empty stomach. If you can, take it 30 minutes before eating, or 2 hours after eating. But if it upsets your stomach, you can take it with or after food.

A doctor (or a pharmacist) may recommend taking ferrous sulfate with orange juice or a vitamin C supplement. Vitamin C is believed to increase the amount of iron absorbed by the body.

Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water. Do not suck, chew or keep the tablet in your mouth as this can cause mouth ulcers or stain your teeth.

Do not take it with tea, coffee, eggs or dairy products, as they can reduce the amount of iron that gets into your system. When you take ferrous sulfate (or when you eat foods that are high in iron), leave a 2-hour gap before having these foods or drinks.

If you have difficulty swallowing the tablets tell your doctor or pharmacist.

The drops may be easier for children and people who find it difficult to swallow tablets.

If you’re taking ferrous sulfate as drops, it will come with a plastic syringe or dropper to help you measure out the right dose. If you do not have one, ask a pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount of medicine.

Important

Keep ferrous sulfate out of sight and reach of children, as an overdose may be fatal.

Ferrous sulfate is not harmful if it’s been prescribed for your child and you follow your doctor’s instructions, or the instructions on the packet.

How long to take it for

To prevent iron deficiency anaemia, you’ll need to take ferrous sulfate for as long as you’re at risk of getting this condition.

To treat iron deficiency anaemia, you’ll need to take it for several months. Your doctor will usually advise you to keep taking it for 3 to 6 months after your condition has improved to help build up your body’s iron supply.

If you forget to take it

If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time to take the next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you often forget doses, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to remember to take your medicine.

If you take too much

Taking more than the recommended dose of ferrous sulfate can cause vomiting, stomach pain or diarrhoea.

In serious cases you may vomit blood, have a seizure or fit, or become unconscious.

Urgent advice: Contact 111 for advice now if:

• you or your child takes more than the recommended dose of ferrous sulfate

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111

If you go to A&E do not drive yourself. Get someone else to drive you, or call an ambulance.

Take the ferrous sulfate packet or the leaflet inside it and any remaining medicine with you.

Page last reviewed: 9 February 2023

Next review due: 9 February 2026

Side effects of ferrous sulfate

Like all medicines, ferrous sulfate can cause side effects in some people, but many people have no side effects or only minor ones.

Common side effects

There are things you can do to cope with these common side effects of ferrous sulfate:

Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)

Try taking ferrous sulfate with, or just after, a meal or snack. Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. If you’re being sick, try small frequent sips of water to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.

If you take contraceptive pills and you’re being sick, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Stomach discomfort or heartburn

Try taking ferrous sulfate with, or just after, a meal or snack. It can help to eat and drink slowly and have smaller and more frequent meals.

Losing your appetite

Eat when you would usually expect to be hungry. If it helps, eat smaller meals more often than usual. Snack when you’re hungry. Have nutritious snacks that are high in calories and protein, such as dried fruit and nuts.

Constipation

To help with constipation, get more fibre into your diet by eating fresh fruit, vegetables and cereals, and drink plenty of water. Try to exercise more regularly, for example, by going for a daily walk or run.

Diarrhoea

Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take contraceptive pills and you have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Dark or black poo

This is common when taking iron and is nothing to worry about.

Talk to a doctor or contact 111 straight away if your poo is black and sticky looking, or has red streaks in it, or if you also feel unwell in any other way.

Black stained teeth

Rinse your mouth with water after taking the drops. Do not suck or chew the tablet, or keep it in your mouth.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to ferrous sulfate.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

• you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling

You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of ferrous sulfate. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicines packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 9 February 2023

Next review due: 9 February 2026

Efficacy and tolerability of iron preparations in the prevention and treatment of anemia in pregnant women » Obstetrics and Gynecology

This article discusses the efficacy and acceptability of oral preparations for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Information is given on the rate of recovery of hematological parameters, the frequency and severity of side effects of various salts of ferrous iron and hydroxide of the polymaltose complex of ferric iron. It has been shown that, with the same clinical and laboratory efficacy, ferric iron preparations in the composition of the polymaltose hydroxide complex show a higher degree of tolerance and safety in the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency in pregnant women.

Anemia is one of the most common pathological conditions during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Depending on the degree of industrial development of the country, the frequency of anemia in pregnant women ranges from 5.7 to 75%, averaging 41.8%. This means that every year 56 million women worldwide require treatment for anemia [33]. At the same time, the frequency of anemia increases many times from the first trimester of pregnancy to the third.

The most unfavorable regions in terms of the prevalence of anemia in pregnant women are the regions of Africa (55.8%), Asia (41.6%), Latin America and the Caribbean (31.1%) and Oceania (30.4%). However, even in relatively prosperous regions, such as Western Europe, anemia occurs in almost every fifth pregnant woman (18. 7%) [34]. In the Russian Federation, in recent years, the incidence of anemia during pregnancy has increased, and currently it is 35% [5, 7].

On the background of anemia, the transfer and deposition of oxygen is disturbed, which makes it difficult to provide a vital function – respiration and leads to metabolic imbalance. With anemia during pregnancy, the frequency of preterm birth and placental insufficiency increases by 3-4 times, by 2-3 times by anomalies of labor and bleeding during childbirth, by 2 times by infectious and inflammatory complications in the postpartum period [2, 8, 11, 28].

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common form of anemia in pregnant women, accounting for more than 90%. The female body needs 1.5-1.7 mg of iron per day, and with increased loss of iron, for example during pregnancy, with an increased amount of menstrual blood loss, etc., the need increases. During pregnancy, the need for iron increases from 0.8 mg/day in the first trimester to 6–7 mg/day in the second half [23].

To meet the needs of a developing fetus, a pregnant woman needs to spend about 300 mg of iron. During a normal pregnancy, the natural loss of this trace element will be about 200-300 mg, about 500 mg more is required to ensure the physiological enhancement of erythropoiesis, 200-250 mg is lost during childbirth. During the entire pregnancy, with a normal diet, a healthy woman receives about 700-800 mg of iron with food. Therefore, it is still necessary to use 400-500 mg of iron, which are consumed from the depot. In this regard, even a slight latent iron deficiency that precedes the onset of pregnancy poses a risk of rapid depletion of the depot and the development of complications during pregnancy.

Usually, the diagnosis of anemia in pregnant women is based on the WHO recommended lower hemoglobin limit of 110 g/l. However, the number of women with a low iron reserve (serum ferritin level less than 12 mcg/l) from 15 to 24 weeks of gestation increases 6 times and continues to increase towards childbirth. At the same time, the vast majority of women (90%) have a hemoglobin level above 110 g/l, which determines the underestimation of the iron deficiency state [33].

Iron deficiency affects both intrauterine and extrauterine development of the child. During the normal course of pregnancy in a healthy woman, iron ions are actively transported through the placenta. However, with a lack of iron intake to the fetus due to the initial deficiency in the mother, reduced transport and absorption in placental insufficiency, complications of pregnancy, its accumulation in the depot is insufficient.

When the mother is deficient in iron, the breastfed child continues to lack iron intake. Such children are characterized by a large loss of body weight after birth and slow recovery, impaired umbilical cord fall-off and epithelialization of the umbilical wound, a higher incidence of infectious and inflammatory diseases. With IDA in the mother, the frequency of anemia in children at the age of one year reaches 68%, which adversely affects their mental and motor development, reduces the body’s resistance to infections.

The erythropoiesis cycle is a long process, and therefore, to ensure a stable normal level of hemoglobin in the treatment of IDA during pregnancy, long-term use of drugs is necessary to consistently ensure its relief, saturation of the depot (replenishment of reserves) and maintenance therapy. In addition, it should be taken into account that the iron in food is absorbed only by 10–20%, therefore, it is necessary to increase the amount of iron entering the body by 5–10 times in order to meet the daily requirement [4].

Because of the high frequency and severity of complications of IDA, WHO recommends the routine use of 60 mg of iron and 400 mg of folic acid daily from 12 weeks of gestation until term for preventive medication. With the development of anemia, the dose of iron is doubled (UNICEF/UNU/WHO, 2001). The standard for monitoring the course of normal pregnancy (outpatient care) of the Ministry of Health and Social Development of Russia (No. 662, 2006) provides for the use of iron-containing drugs (such as iron hydroxide polymaltose or fumarate) at a therapeutic dose for 1-3 months. Some countries have developed programs for the prevention of anemia during pregnancy based on weekly iron (usually 60 mg) and folic acid (usually 2.8 mg) for 3 months at a six-month interval in women of reproductive age with a preserved mestrual cycle; daily iron and folic acid (30 mg and 0.4 mg) from early pregnancy in areas where anemia is not a common problem, and daily iron and folic acid 60 and 0.4 mg where IDA is common [17, 19]. At the end of the program, it is recommended to continue taking the drug for 6 months after delivery.

Currently, the most common form of prevention and treatment of iron deficiency and anemia is oral iron supplementation. In most cases, the parenteral route does not have absorption advantages and is indicated for malabsorption in the gastrointestinal tract or the need for urgent saturation of the body with iron (severe anemia, progressive disorders, impending blood loss). Most often for parenteral administration, iron (III) hydroxide sucrose or polymaltose complex is used [10, 12, 31]. Intramuscular and intravenous administration of iron preparations can be combined with allergic reactions, up to anaphylactic shock, pain and discoloration of the skin at the injection site, headaches and venous thrombosis [15, 16, 27].

The calculation of the required dose of the drug is carried out depending on the supply of iron in the depot according to the level of serum ferritin (SF) 1 µg/l SF=8 mg of iron. The normal content of ferritin in healthy women is 32–60 µg/l, which corresponds to 356–480 mg of iron in the depot. If the ferritin level is over 60 mcg/l, iron supplementation is not indicated. The boundary that defines a clear iron deficiency is the level of ferritin less than 12 mcg/L. At the same time, many researchers consider the content of serum ferritin to be less than 20–30 μg/l as a critically low level or even lack of iron stores in pregnant women [22, 33]. With this approach, the number of women who are indicated to take iron supplements during the preparation and during pregnancy is increasing.

IDA medications can be classified into one of two groups: ferrous or ferric. The first to appear were preparations in the form of ferrous salts: sulfate, fumarate, gluconate, ferric chloride. The widespread use of preparations based on ferrous salts is primarily due to the high degree of solubility and dissociation, which determines good absorption in the intestine.

However, oral administration of iron-containing preparations is often accompanied by side effects. The most common of these are a metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea. Less common side effects are hypotension and hemorrhoids [11]. Usually these side effects depend on the dose and appear when taken on an empty stomach.

In addition, it was found that the use of salt preparations of iron (II), especially for prophylactic purposes (orally), is accompanied by increasing oxidative stress [13, 29].

To reduce the frequency and severity of side effects of iron (II) salt preparations, pregnant women are forced to take them with food. However, the combination of iron and food intake is not recommended by the instructions for use, as it disrupts the absorption of the therapeutic drug. Particularly unfavorable for the absorption of iron preparations is the combination with fatty foods, dairy products, coffee and, especially, tea. Also, the absorption of iron is disturbed by its combination with calcium.

In an attempt to avoid the side effects of iron supplementation, alternative regimens have been proposed, including intermittent or low-dose regimens, but these are more effective as preventive than curative regimens [25, 27].

Since one of the main reasons for the poor tolerance of iron preparations are free ions that are part of their composition and are released during the absorption of simple salt in the gastrointestinal tract, in recent years, non-ionic iron preparations – ferric iron in combination with substance of high molecular weight. These drugs include iron (III) hydroxide polymaltose. Due to the large molecular weight, polymaltose hydroxide diffuses through the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract 40 times slower than ferrous iron, which penetrates the concentration gradient. The structure of the complex is similar to that of the natural iron compound, ferritin, and the iron of this complex is absorbed only by active absorption, mainly in the duodenum and jejunum. Iron-binding proteins located on the surface of the intestinal epithelium absorb iron (III) from the complex through competitive ligand exchange. The mechanism of active absorption does not allow overdose or intoxication with the drug. The complex of iron (III) hydroxide polymaltose is stable, does not release iron ions under physiological conditions and does not have the pro-oxidant properties inherent in iron (II) salts. These qualities explain the lower frequency of side effects and the higher level of acceptability of drugs based on it. Unlike iron salts, food components do not reduce the bioavailability of iron in the polymaltose complex [18], and therefore iron (III) preparations of polymaltose hydroxide can be taken with food, which not only does not reduce, but increases its absorption [9].

Comparing the effectiveness of iron sulfate (II) with that of polymaltose complex (III) hydroxide in children from 1 to 6 years old, A.V. Bopche et al. (2009) indicated a higher increase in hemoglobin levels in children receiving ferrous iron. However, the incidence of side effects was 17% versus 7.6% for the ferric iron complex. At the same time, the frequency of gastrointestinal side effects in ferrous sulfate was 2.5 times higher [14]. Similar results were obtained by B. Yasa et al. (2011), who, when studying the efficacy, tolerability, and acceptability of ferrous sulfate treatment, found that it was also more than twice as likely to cause side effects as polymaltose complex (HPC) hydroxide. At the same time, ferrous sulfate was characterized by a more frequent combination of several gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, constipation, abdominal pain, Fig. 1) [35]. As a result, the acceptability of HPC according to the Wong-Baker scale was significantly better (1.63±0.56 versus 2. 14±0.75; p = 0.001, fig. 2).

In another study conducted in adults, with no difference in hemoglobin levels achieved within 2 months of treatment, the incidence of side effects in the group of patients treated with ferrous sulfate was 34.1%, while in those taking iron HPA in the equivalent dose, it was 2 times lower (14.9%; p <0.001) [31].

While monitoring the protocol for managing patients with “Iron deficiency anemia”, N.I. Nekrasova et al. (2009) showed that the incidence of constipation and epigastric discomfort was more than 3 to 10 times higher with ferrous sulfate than with polymaltose hydroxide. At the same time, due to the severity of side effects, 14% of patients refused further treatment with ferrous sulfate. As a result, despite the higher cost, the treatment of iron HPC turned out to be economically justified, especially with concomitant pathology of the gastrointestinal tract.

A study of the effectiveness of the oral form of iron (III) HPA (200-300 mg/day) in the treatment of IDA of varying severity in pregnant women showed that the first signs of anemia correction appear already at the end of the first week of treatment. First of all, this was noted in women with mild anemia, in whom normal hemoglobin levels were achieved in 15% of cases. In addition, in most cases with mild anemia and in every third woman with moderate anemia, the appearance of reticulocytosis was noted [1]. It should be noted that the improvement in clinical data was somewhat ahead of hematological parameters. Two weeks later, hemoglobin values ​​returned to normal in 394% of women, and after 28 days only 9.09% had signs of anemia, while in one pregnant woman the low level of hemoglobin did not correspond to the normal values ​​of ferritin, which indicated the absence of iron deficiency. Prophylactic administration of 100 mg iron(III) HPA in the risk group prevented the development of IDA in 87% of women at risk for this complication.

Effective prevention and treatment of iron deficiency combined with favorable clinical results: rapid resolution of clinical manifestations of anemia, less incidence of placental insufficiency and preeclampsia.

In a study of similar design, V.A. Burleva et al. (2006) showed that the intake of 100 mg of iron in the composition of the GPC by pregnant women with latent iron deficiency allows maintaining the required levels of serum iron, ferritin, without changes in the content of transferrin and the coefficient of saturation of transferrin with iron. The intake of 200–300 mg of iron in IDA allowed a significant increase in the levels of serum iron, ferritin, and an increase in the saturation coefficient of transferrin with iron.

In 2011, the results of a multicenter randomized controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of the polymaltose complex and ferrous sulfate in pregnant women with IDA were obtained [24]. The results showed that after taking equivalent doses of iron preparations (III and II), an increase in hemoglobin values ​​by 60 and 9Day 0 of treatment was similar, while ferritin levels were higher in the iron polymaltose group. Compliance (in terms of the number of returned packages of drugs) was significantly worse in the ferrous sulfate group (1. 53 vs. 2.97; p = 0.015). Finally, the incidence of side effects was also significantly higher with ferrous salt treatment (29.3 vs. 56.4%; p = 0.015; Fig. 3).

Iron succinate and gluconate, as well as sulfate, show a high rate of recovery of hemoglobin levels, but are inferior to HPA in tolerability [20, 21]. In an experimental study, a comparison of iron sulfate, aminochelate, and GPA showed that the latter has the least toxicity to the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract [31]. Also, HPA showed higher tolerance, better absorption and predictability of the hematological response compared to ferrous fumarate [26].

Thus, with the same clinical and laboratory efficacy with ferrous salts, ferric iron preparations in the composition of the CHP show a higher degree of tolerance, which, in the absence of the risk of overdose and the need to adhere to the fasting regimen, increases the degree of their compliance and expands the possibilities of use in prevention and treatment of iron deficiency conditions in pregnant women.

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Baev Oleg Radomirovich, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Head of the Maternity Department of the Federal State Budgetary Institution Scientific Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology. academician V.I. Kulakov them. academician V.I. Kulakov of the Ministry of Health and Social Development of Russia; Professor of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproductology of the First Moscow State Medical University. THEM. Sechenov of the Ministry of Health and Social Development of Russia.
Address: 117997, Russia, Moscow, st. Academician Oparina, 4. Phone 8 (495) 438-11-88. E-mail: [email protected]

How to choose the right drug to correct iron deficiency?

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April 15, 2021

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How to choose the right drug to correct iron deficiency?

Iron deficiency is one of the most common types of abnormalities in the body among adults according to WHO. Most often, it develops for a fairly obvious reason for an unbalanced diet.

But other options are possible. For example, a decrease in the ability of the intestine to absorb iron with age or after surgery on the gastrointestinal tract. Iron deficiency anemia is also regularly diagnosed in pregnant women. Iron Deficiency Symptoms They are all divided into two main syndromes: anemic and sideropenic.

With anemic syndrome the hemoglobin level drops and the following symptoms occur:

• Weakness and fatigue
• Dizziness
• Tinnitus
• Severe sensitivity to cold
• Shortness of breath and shortness of breath
• Palpitations
• Reduced pressure

With sideropenic syndrome, many body tissues lack iron. Person may be disturbed:

• Dryness and flaking of the skin
• Fissures at the corners of the mouth
• Pain or burning of the tongue
• Dry mouth
• Brittle nails and hair
• Altered sense of smell and taste

To determine the exact diagnosis, it is necessary to do a clinical blood test

Types of iron preparations

There are several types drugs.

It is strongly discouraged to take them without consulting a doctor. Only on the basis of the examination, the doctor will be able to choose the medicine for you according to the principle of action and dosage.

Iron tablets

The pharmaceutical market is dominated by preparations with ferrous iron: ferrous gluconate or ferrous sulfate. Their effectiveness is almost the same. Ferrous sulfate contains a little more, but this difference does not make itself felt due to different dosages.

These drugs work quickly. Ferrous iron is well absorbed and raises hemoglobin levels in 2-4 weeks. It is always necessary to take iron salts under the supervision of a physician to avoid side effects or overdose.

Vitamins containing iron

More often used as a prevention of iron deficiency or as part of a complex treatment of anemia at the initial stage. In vitamin complexes, trivalent iron is used, which is absorbed by the body a little worse. It is combined with other vitamins and minerals to improve performance.