Comparative Efficacy of Ferrous, Ferric and Liposomal Iron Preparations for Prophylaxis in Infants

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of different oral iron preparations prescribed for prevention of iron deficiency anemia in healthy infants.

This retrospective study enrolled infants aged between 6 and 12 months who were initiated on iron prophylaxis at four months of age. Enrolled children consistently used specific iron preparations (ferrous, ferric or liposomal iron) and had their complete blood counts and serum ferritin levels assessed within the 6–12 month timeframe. Blood values and iron prophylaxis type (ferrous (Fe⁺²), ferric (Fe⁺³), liposomal iron) were recorded. Chi-square test was used to compare the hemoglobin and ferritin levels levels between groups. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses assessed the risk of anemia.

The study included 371 children (ferrous sulphate - 60, iron hydroxide-polymaltose complex - 137 and liposomal ferric pyrophosphate - 174) with a mean (SD) age 9.1 (1.3) mo. Iron deficiency in different groups were: liposomal iron (46.0%), ferric iron (44.5%), and ferrous iron (5.0%). Mean (SD) serum ferritin levels (µg/L) were higher in the ferrous group [30.1 (10.8)] compared to infants receiving ferric [17.6 (14.50)] and liposomal iron [15.4 (12.1)] (P < 0.001). Mean (SD) hemoglobin levels (g/dL) were significantly higher in the ferrous group [12.4 (0.8)] compared to ferric [11.9 (1.1)] and liposomal iron group [12.0 (1.1)]; P =0.008. Multiple regression analysis showed that ferrous group was associated with a lower risk of iron deficiency [OR (95% CI) 0.04 (0.01–0.15), P < 0.001].

Ferrous iron demonstrated superior efficacy compared to ferric and liposomal iron. Further studies are needed to establish alternative iron preprations in children.