Comparative study of efficacy of intravenous iron sucrose versus ferric carboxymaltose in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia

Abstract

Background: Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a common haematological complication with potentially serious clinical consequences that may require intravenous iron therapy. Parenteral iron therapy results faster and higher replenishment of iron stores and correction of Haemoglobin (Hb) levels with better compliance. The study was to compare the efficacy of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose with intravenous iron sucrose to treat iron deficiency anaemia. Methods: 188 patients were included in the study. 100 patients were given iron sucrose. After a 25 mg test dose on the first infusion only, this was given at a dose of 300 mg by intravenous infusion diluted in 100 ml of normal saline, every alternate day. 88 patients were treated with ferric carboxymaltose at a dose of 500 mg diluted in 100 ml of normal saline by intravenous infusion. Hb level and serum Ferritin of both groups were done before iron therapy and 3 weeks after iron therapy. Results: The mean±SD rise of haemoglobin concentration 3 weeks after iron therapy in iron sucrose group was 11.0±0.61 g/dL, while in ferric carboxymaltose group was 11.2±0.64 g/dL. The mean±SD ferritin 3 weeks after iron therapy in iron sucrose group was 76.0±14.28 ng/mL, while in ferric carboxymaltose group was 80.0±15.16 ng/mL. No serious adverse events were reported in either the ferric carboxymaltose group or iron sucrose group. Conclusions: Ferric carboxymaltose causes higher rise in Hb level as compared to parenteral iron sucrose.