Efficacy and Safety of Intravenous Ferric Carboxymaltose in Pregnant Women with Anaemia

Background

Iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy is a significant global health issue, affecting over 50% of women in India. While oral iron supplements are commonly used, their effectiveness is often compromised due to poor adherence and gastrointestinal side effects. Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose offers an alternative that is well tolerated and allows rapid correction of iron deficiency. However, evidence about its safety and efficacy in pregnant women remains limited.

Materials and Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted from November 2023 to June 2024 in Hyderabad, India. It included pregnant women aged ≥18 years, in their second or third trimester, diagnosed with mild to moderate iron deficiency anaemia (haemoglobin 7-10.9 g/dL), and receiving intravenous ferric carboxymaltose. Haemoglobin levels were measured before infusion and weekly for four weeks. Maternal safety and adverse effects were monitored throughout. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and repeated-measures ANOVA.

Results

Sixty-two women participated. The mean baseline haemoglobin was 8.54 g/dL, increasing to 10.85 g/dL by week four (p<0.001). Over 60% had moderate anaemia at baseline. No serious adverse reactions occurred. The demographic and anaemia severity patterns aligned with regional data.

Conclusion

Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose significantly improves haemoglobin in pregnant women with iron deficiency anaemia and has a good safety profile. It’s use in antenatal care could benefit women who are unresponsive to or intolerant of oral iron. Further research is needed to assess long-term maternal and neonatal outcomes.