Publication:

A comparative study on efficacy and safety of intravenous iron sucrose and oral iron among anaemic pregnant females

Background Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the most common medical problem in pregnancy. Both parenteral and oral iron therapies are modalities used for management of anaemia in pregnant females. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of oral and intravenous iron therapy in improving iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy and restoring iron stores, compare the pregnancy outcome in the two groups and evaluate their safety.

Methods This prospective randomized clinical trial conducted among pregnant women between 14 and 36 weeks with established IDA who were treated with IVIS (Intravenous Iron Sucrose) or OI (ferrous sulphate). All patients were monitored for laboratory response and adverse effects. Independent sample-t test, Chi square test and ANOVA were used for statistical analysis. P <0.05 was considered significant.

Results From first follow up till the end of the study the mean hemoglobin level of IV Group was found to be significantly higher as compared to that of oral Group. The MCV (mean corpuscular volume) values increased to a significant level in the intravenous group as compare to oral. After therapy increase transferrin saturation in the intravenous group were significantly higher at all-time interval than the oral group. The mean neonatal hemoglobin at birth was significantly higher in IV group 16.88±1.96 gm/dl than oral group 16.88±1.96 (p= p<0.0001).

Conclusions Intravenous iron sucrose is comparatively more efficient in improving haemoglobin than oral iron and has better pregnancy outcomes.