Iron preparation

Overview of iron preparations used in medicine

Iron preparations are a group of chemical compounds used to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia. These preparations are available in various forms, including oral and intravenous formulations, and are essential in managing conditions where iron supplementation is necessary.

Forms of Iron Preparations

Iron preparations can be broadly categorized into oral and parenteral forms. Each form has specific indications, advantages, and potential side effects.

Oral Iron Preparations

Oral iron supplements are commonly used due to their ease of administration and cost-effectiveness. They are available in several formulations, including:

• Ferrous sulfate: One of the most commonly used oral iron supplements. It is available in tablet form and is often prescribed for mild to moderate iron deficiency.

Ferrous sulfate tablets

• Ferrous gluconate: Known for being gentler on the stomach compared to ferrous sulfate, making it suitable for patients with gastrointestinal sensitivity.

Chemical structure of ferrous gluconate

• Ferrous fumarate: Another common oral iron supplement, often used in prenatal vitamins.

Parenteral Iron Preparations

Parenteral iron is used when oral iron is not tolerated or when rapid replenishment of iron stores is necessary. Common parenteral iron preparations include:

• Iron sucrose: Administered intravenously, it is used in patients with chronic kidney disease or those who cannot tolerate oral iron.

Iron sucrose IV drip

• Iron dextran: An older formulation that requires a test dose due to the risk of allergic reactions.

• Ferric carboxymaltose: A newer formulation that allows for larger doses to be administered in a single session.

Mechanism of Action

Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport. Iron preparations work by replenishing the body's iron stores, thereby increasing hemoglobin production and improving oxygen delivery to tissues.

Structure of hemoglobin

Indications

Iron preparations are indicated for the treatment and prevention of iron deficiency anemia, which can result from various conditions such as:

• Chronic blood loss (e.g., from gastrointestinal bleeding)
• Increased iron requirements (e.g., during pregnancy)
• Malabsorption syndromes (e.g., celiac disease)

Side Effects

Oral iron supplements can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain. Parenteral iron can cause allergic reactions, and care must be taken to monitor patients during administration.

Related Pages

• Anemia
• Hemoglobin
• Iron deficiency
• Chronic kidney disease