The Relative Merits of a Slow-Release and a Standard Iron Preparation during Pregnancy

Summary

A comprehensive study was carried out in 248 pregnant women between a once-daily slow-release preparation of ferrous sulphate/folic acid (105 mg. elemental iron) and a twice-daily standard tablet preparation of ferrous fumarate/folic acid (80 mg. elemental iron per day). The slow-release iron preparation led to significantly higher serum levels at the end of pregnancy and to marginally higher haemoglobin levels. The incidence of gastro-intestinal side-effects caused by this preparation, however, was significantly higher.

Key Words::

• Iron supplements
• dosage forms
• prenatal care
• pregnancy