Strategies for managing iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy among Indian women

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a significant global health issue and is particularly concerning for pregnant women as it can lead to complications for both the mother and the fetus. During pregnancy, the physiological demand for iron increases threefold to support fetal development and maternal adaptation. The goal of a recent study was to identify gaps in current IDA management, the limitations of conventional oral iron therapy, and the need for more effective and well-tolerated treatments.

This study entailed a questionnaire-based survey conducted among leading gynecologists across India. The survey gathered data on the challenges faced with conventional oral iron therapy, the desire for changes in oral iron salts, and the preference for novel oral iron prescriptions for their patients.

The findings revealed that 82% of gynecologists and obstetricians encountered challenges with conventional oral iron therapy. Furthermore, 86% wanted to change the oral iron salts they prescribed, and 70% expressed a preference for novel oral iron formulations. Ferric maltol – a new form of chelated oral iron, emerged as a potential solution for IDA management. Clinical studies on ferric maltol in various conditions, such as IDA, which is associated with inflammatory bowel disease, chronic kidney disease, and pulmonary hypertension, showed significant improvements in hemoglobin and iron indices with good tolerability.

The findings of this study indicate that ferric maltol is a convenient and effective treatment option for the long-term management of IDA. Emphasizing the importance of a healthy diet and iron supplementation before or early in pregnancy, ferric maltol presents a promising alternative to conventional oral treatments and may reduce the need for intravenous iron therapy. Its effectiveness across various conditions and good tolerability render it suitable for patients who are intolerant to other oral treatments or noncompliant with intravenous therapy.

Source: Zinzuwadiya S G, Modi N P, Dhande K S, et al. Indian J Obstet Gynecol Res 2024;11(2):147-151