Publication:

Ferric carboxymaltose: choice of treatment in postpartum anaemia in multispeciality zonal hospital of armed forces medical services

Background World Health Organization has defined postpartum anemia (PPA) as hemoglobin (Hb) of < 10 gm% during the postpartum period. The objective of the present study was to compare the safety and efficacy of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in the treatment of post-partum anaemia (PPA).

Methods A total of 214 patients were identified in a zonal hospital of Armed Forces Medical Services, between Jan 2019 and August 2019 who found to have PPA. Patients having hemoglobin (Hb) <10 g/dl were assigned to receive Intravenous FCM, as per the calculated dose. Changes in hemoglobin (Hb) and serum ferritin levels at 2 and 6 weeks after treatment were recorded and analyzed. Adverse effects to FCM administration were also recorded.

Results Significant rises in Hb and serum ferritin levels were observed. The mean increase in Hb after 2 weeks was 3.1±0.50 g/dl and 4.0±70 g/dl at 6 weeks. The mean increase in serum ferritin levels after 2 weeks was 210.40±38.50 and 270.25±14.60 ng/ml after 6 weeks. Adverse drug reactions were significantly less (p<0.001).

Conclusions Ferric carboxymaltose increases Hb level and restores iron stores faster without any severe adverse drug reactions. Patient tolerance was good after FCM injection.