Comparison of the Prophylactic Use of Iron Polymaltose Complex and Ferrous Sulfate Iron Preparations in Terms of Efficacy and Side Effect Profile in Pregnant Women

INTRODUCTION: Pregnancy is a physiological process in which the need for iron increases. We aimed to compare the effectiveness and side effects of different oral iron supplements on pregnant women.
METHODS: 100 pregnant women between the ages of 18-45 who used Fe+2 (ferrous sulfate) valent iron supplementation during their pregnancy were included in the study as group 1. 100 pregnant women in the same age range who used Fe+3 (iron polymaltose complex) valent iron supplementation during their pregnancy were determined as group 2. Response to anemia treatment was evaluated with the results of laboratory parameters (Hgb, Hct). The side effects of the preparations used in oral iron replacement were questioned retrospectively with a questionnaire applied to the patients.
RESULTS: 16 of 100 patients (16%) had side effects with oral iron polymaltose complex supplementation. 43 of 100 patients (43%) had side effects with oral ferrous sulfate supplementation. The overall side effect was higher in those taking oral ferrous sulfate supplementation (p<0.001). Hb and Hct values measured at 3-month periods were found to be similar between the groups (p>0.05). The most common side effect was nausea and vomiting with 12%.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Both oral ferrous sulfate and iron polymaltose complex supplementation have similar effects on hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in pregnant women without iron deficiency anemia. However, oral ferrous sulfate supplementation causes more side effects compared to iron polymaltose complex.