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Classification of Drugs Used in Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is commonly treated with iron supplementation, classified into oral and parenteral iron preparations.
Oral Iron Preparations
- Ferrous Sulfate: Most commonly used, containing 20% elemental iron.
- Ferrous Fumarate: Contains 33% elemental iron.
- Ferrous Gluconate: Contains 12% elemental iron.
- Iron Polysaccharide Complex: Better absorbed with fewer side effects.
Advantages
- Inexpensive and readily available.
- Effective for mild to moderate IDA.
Disadvantages
- Gastrointestinal side effects like constipation, nausea.
- Long-term use is required, often 3-6 months.
Parenteral Iron Preparations
- Iron Sucrose: Used in patients with chronic kidney disease.
- Ferric Carboxymaltose: Provides rapid iron repletion.
- Iron Dextran: Older preparation with a higher risk of allergic reactions.
- Ferric Gluconate: Used intravenously with fewer side effects than dextran.
Advantages
- Rapid repletion of iron stores.
- Avoids gastrointestinal side effects.
- Essential for patients who cannot tolerate or absorb oral iron.
Disadvantages
- Higher cost compared to oral iron.
- Risk of allergic reactions (especially with iron dextran).
- Requires intravenous administration.
Adverse Effects of Iron Preparations
Oral Iron
- Gastrointestinal disturbances: nausea, constipation.
- Black stools and teeth staining (liquid iron).
Parenteral Iron
- Iron Dextran: Higher risk of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
- Iron Sucrose & Ferric Gluconate: Lower risk of allergic reactions, but still present.
- Ferric Carboxymaltose: Dizziness, hypertension, hypersensitivity reactions.
Conclusion
Iron deficiency anaemia is treated with oral and parenteral iron preparations, with the choice of treatment depending on the severity of the anaemia and the patient’s ability to tolerate oral iron.
