Ferric carboxymaltose: Boon for anaemic pregnant patients

Abstract

Background: Iron deficiency is a major cause for anaemia. IDA is associated with significant maternal, fetal and infant morbidity. Iron deficiency is potentially both preventable and treatable. Current treatment options are limited and include oral iron supplementation, which can be ineffective and poorly tolerated and red blood transfusions which carry an inherent risk and should be avoided. Ferric caboxymaltose is a new treatment option that is better tolerated and has rapid improvement in hemoglobin levels. This study was designed to assess safety and efficacy of ferric caboxymaltose in pregnant anaemic patients. Methods: It was a prospective observational study included 50 anaemic pregnant patients who received ferric carboxymaltose in second and third trimester of pregnancy. Effectiveness was assessed by repeat haemoglobin estimation after 4 weeks. Safety was assessed by analysis of adverse reactions and foetal heart rate monitoring during infusion. Results: Most of the women were in age group 20-25 yrs and had mild anaemia as per WHO guidelines. Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose significantly improved hemoglobin levels in all women which was statistically significant p value (0.00). No serious adverse events were noted. Conclusion: Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose is a safe and effective treatment option for anaemia in pregnant patientsn.