COMPARATIVE EFFECTIVENESS OF IRON SUPPLEMENTATION FORMS IN TREATING PREGNANCY-RELATED ANEMIA: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Background: Iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy remains a global health concern with serious maternal and fetal implications. While oral iron salts are the standard treatment, they are often poorly tolerated, leading to reduced compliance. Iron polymaltose complex (IPC) offers a potentially better-tolerated alternative, though comparative data on efficacy and safety in pregnancy are limited.

Objective: To compare the efficacy and side effect profiles of oral iron salts and iron polymaltose complex in the treatment of pregnancy-related anemia.

Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted over eight months at two tertiary care hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 200 pregnant women diagnosed with moderate iron-deficiency anemia were randomly assigned to receive either ferrous sulfate (200 mg daily) or iron polymaltose complex (100 mg daily) for 12 weeks. Hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels were measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Gastrointestinal side effects and medication adherence were also recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26, with t-tests and chi-square tests applied as appropriate.

Results: Both groups showed significant increases in hemoglobin and serum ferritin over 12 weeks, with no statistically significant differences between them (p > 0.05). However, gastrointestinal side effects, particularly constipation and nausea, were more frequent in the iron salts group. Adherence was notably higher in the IPC group, with 79% completing over 90% of prescribed doses compared to 68% in the iron salts group.

Conclusion: Iron polymaltose complex is as effective as iron salts in correcting pregnancy-related anemia but offers superior tolerability and adherence. It presents a viable alternative for women who experience side effects from traditional iron therapy.