From the Guidelines
Ferrous fumarate is an effective treatment for increasing hemoglobin (Hb) levels in people with iron deficiency anemia, as it provides the body with the necessary iron to produce new red blood cells. According to the most recent guidelines, ferrous fumarate is as effective as ferrous sulphate in treating iron deficiency anemia 1. The recommended dosage is typically 200 mg taken 1-3 times daily, containing about 65 mg elemental iron, and should be taken preferably between meals with vitamin C to enhance absorption.
Treatment with ferrous fumarate usually continues for 3-6 months to fully replenish iron stores, even after hemoglobin normalizes. It is essential to note that the haemoglobin concentration should rise by 2 g/dl after 3–4 weeks of treatment, and failure to do so may indicate poor compliance, misdiagnosis, continued blood loss, or malabsorption 1.
In comparison to other treatments, such as intravenous iron supplementation, ferrous fumarate is a more cost-effective and simpler option for patients who can tolerate oral iron therapy 1. However, intravenous iron may be necessary for patients who cannot tolerate oral iron or have impaired absorption.
Key points to consider when treating iron deficiency anemia with ferrous fumarate include:
- Typical adult dosing is 200 mg taken 1-3 times daily
- Treatment should continue for 3-6 months to fully replenish iron stores
- Haemoglobin concentration should rise by 2 g/dl after 3–4 weeks of treatment
- Patients should be monitored for side effects, such as constipation, nausea, and black stools
- Ferrous fumarate should be taken preferably between meals with vitamin C to enhance absorption, and avoided with calcium-rich foods, coffee, tea, or antacids, which can interfere with iron absorption.
From the Research
Ferrofumarate and Hemoglobin Levels
- Ferrofumarate, a form of iron supplement, has been studied for its effectiveness in treating iron deficiency anemia and improving hemoglobin levels 2.
- A study comparing a combination ferrous fumarate product with a polysaccharide iron complex found that the ferrous product was significantly more effective in increasing hemoglobin levels and serum ferritin levels in patients with uncomplicated iron deficiency anemia 2.
- The study suggests that ferrous fumarate is safe and effective for use in treating iron deficiency anemia, with a slight increase in gastrointestinal side effects compared to ferric products 2.
Iron Deficiency Anemia and Hemoglobin Levels
- Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by low hemoglobin levels, which can be diagnosed through laboratory tests such as a full blood count 3, 4, 5.
- Treatment of iron deficiency anemia typically involves iron replacement therapy, which can be oral or parenteral, to replenish iron stores and improve hemoglobin levels 3, 4.
- The underlying cause of iron deficiency anemia should also be treated, and gastrointestinal evaluation is often indicated to exclude gastrointestinal malignancy 3, 4.
Role of Iron in Erythropoiesis
- Iron plays a crucial role in erythropoiesis, the process of producing new red blood cells, and is required for hemoglobin synthesis 6.
- Deficiency of iron can inhibit erythropoiesis, leading to anemia and reduced hemoglobin levels 6.
- Iron deficiency can cause anemia by retarding production rates and resulting in smaller, less hemoglobinized red blood cells 6.