Selection of parenteral iron supplement for iron deficiency anemia: A review

Abstract

The article reviews medicinal products for the treatment of iron deficiency conditions and iron deficiency anemia, the prevalence of which is about 30% among the world population. Iron deficiency is a significant cause of anemia, which can lead to hospitalization and even death. In case of intolerance or ineffectiveness of oral formulations of iron supplements, if it is necessary to replenish the iron level quickly, trivalent iron formulations for intravenous administration are used. These supplements are iron complexes with an iron hydroxide core surrounded by a carbohydrate shell. Iron formulations for intravenous administration can be divided into drugs of the "old" and "new" generation. One of the most studied and popular representatives of the "new" generation is iron carboxymaltose (ICM). The results of clinical studies showed that ICM better and faster increases hemoglobin concentration and replenishes iron stores in patients compared to the "old" generation formulations and also has a more favorable safety profile. Large doses of ICM can be administered in a short time, saving resources and increasing patient satisfaction. The injection of large doses of iron with a small number of infusions in the case of ICM is more economically beneficial for all departments of medical institutions, as it significantly reduces the total cost of medical care. Intravenous iron plays an essential role in the perioperative treatment of iron deficiency anemia, especially in elective surgery. Currently, there is a reliable evidence base confirming the efficacy and safety of intravenous iron formulations in chronic kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, heart failure, gynecological and obstetric diseases, and cancer.