From the Research
Iron supplementation is recommended for patients with iron deficiency without anemia to prevent progression to anemia and improve symptoms like fatigue, reduced exercise capacity, and restless legs syndrome. The treatment of iron deficiency without anemia is crucial to prevent the development of anemia and its associated symptoms. According to the study by 1, iron deficiency at all its levels should be treated, and oral iron therapy is usually the first-line treatment. The study recommends a ferritin cut-off of 30 µg/l for healthy males and females aged >15 years, and cut-offs of 15 and 20 µg/l for children from 6-12 years and younger adolescents from 12-15 years, respectively.
The use of oral iron supplements such as ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, or ferrous fumarate is recommended, with a dose of 28-50 mg of elemental iron per day 1. These supplements should be taken on an empty stomach with vitamin C to enhance absorption, though they can be taken with food if gastrointestinal side effects occur. Treatment should continue for 3-6 months to replenish iron stores, with follow-up ferritin levels to monitor response.
Intravenous iron (such as iron sucrose or ferric carboxymaltose) may be considered only if oral therapy fails due to intolerance, malabsorption, or ongoing blood loss 2, 3. Iron transfusions are not a standard treatment; the term typically refers to IV iron administration, not blood products.
Some key points to consider when treating iron deficiency without anemia include:
- Monitoring ferritin levels to assess iron stores
- Using oral iron supplements as first-line treatment
- Considering intravenous iron therapy if oral therapy fails
- Avoiding iron transfusions, which are not a standard treatment
- Treating iron deficiency before anemia develops to prevent progression and improve symptoms
Overall, the goal of treating iron deficiency without anemia is to replenish iron stores, prevent the development of anemia, and improve symptoms like fatigue, reduced exercise capacity, and restless legs syndrome. By following the recommended treatment guidelines and monitoring ferritin levels, healthcare providers can effectively manage iron deficiency without anemia and improve patient outcomes.