Iron supplementation for iron-deficiency anaemia

Abstract

Background: In recent years, iron supplementation has increased significantly because of the damaging systemic effects of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) being reported. The standard first-line therapy is oral iron tablets, with over 70% of recipients experiencing gastrointestinal adverse effects. Methods: This recent review of high-quality literature compares the effectiveness and adverse effects of tablet and liquid forms of iron supplementation in patients with IDA. Findings: The evidence to date indicates that both forms of iron supplementation are equally effective. However, the literature consistently and strongly supports the use of the liquid form of iron supplementation (ferrous sulfate) over the tablet form (ferrous sulphate or ferrous fumarate) in terms of adverse effects. Conclusions: Healthcare professionals should consider recommending the use of liquid iron formulation for the management of IDA and switch patients to this form if they experience gastrointestinal adverse effects. This may help to effectively manage IDA.