"Hematological Response to Haem Iron Tablets versus Iron Salts in Treatment of Anemia with Pregnancy" (A double blind drug utilization study)

Abstract

Background: Anemia is a common medical disorder affecting a lot of women in pregnancy in the developing countries. Anemia is the second indirect obstetric cause of death after cardiac causes. Aims: To compare the safety, tolerability, efficacy and hematological response of haem iron tablets in treatment of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy versus iron salts capsules. Methodology: Hematological Response to Haem Iron Tablets versus Iron Salts in Treatment of Anemia with Pregnancy". Study site: Ain Shams University hospital. Study design: A double blind clinical trial. Study population: The study was included fourty pregnant females with iron deficiency anemia attending the outpatient clinics of Ain shams university maternity hospital for routine antenatal care with the following inclusion and exclusion criteria:- Results: The study included 40 pregnant women in a double blind study: Group I (Heme iron): 20 cases were received 520mg of hemoglobin powder and 80mg of ferrous sulphate which collectively amounts to 18mg of iron (Globifer forte®, Stanningley Pharma, International) one capsule per day. Group II (Iron salts): 20 cases were received 150mg of dried ferrous sulphate + folic acid (vitamin B9) 0.50mg (Ferrofol, E.I.P.I.C.O Pharma International) one capsule per day. Conclusion: Heme-iron polypeptide is more tolerable than iron salts. It has GIT side effects less than iron salts but its effect on hematological parameters is similar to iron salts. Recommendations: Heme-iron polypeptide is recommended for patients, not tolerable iron salts. Keywords: Hematological Response, Haem Iron, Iron Salts. Anemia with Pregnancy