Intravenous iron treatment in pregnancy: Ferric carboxymaltose for correction of iron deficiency anaemia

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency state of women in pregnancy. Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is associated with significant maternal, morbidity. Current options for treatment include oral iron supplements, which are poorly tolerated, and whole blood transfusion, which carries an inherent risk, should be avoided during pregnancy. Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose is a new treatment option. The study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose for correction of IDA in pregnant women in second and third trimester. It was a prospective study where 50 anaemic pregnant women received Injection ferric carboxymaltose, as a total dose of 800-1000 mg in 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Safety was assessed by analyzing adverse drug reactions. Ferric carboxy maltose significantly increased Hb level in all women in this study group. Increased Hb value was observed 3-4 weeks after infusion. No serious adverse effects were found and minor side effects occurred in patients. Our study revealed that the Hb level increased significantly, was well tolerated and without significant side effects.