Conclusions All currently available intravenous iron preparations appear to be safe and effective , but ferric carboxymaltose seems to provide a better and quicker correction of haemoglobin and serum ferritin levels in iron-deficient patients
Background Iron deficiency is very common in a number of medical conditions .
Ferric carboxymaltose is a new stable iron preparation that can be administered in single infusions over short periods of time .
The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of r and omised controlled trials ( RCTs ) regarding the efficacy and safety of the novel complex compared with other iron formulations .
In addition , the feasibility of a network meta- analysis for indirect comparisons was investigated .
Comparative efficacy and safety of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose in the treatment of postpartum iron deficiency anemia.
OBJECTIVES To compare the safety and efficacy of iron carboxymaltose with ferrous sulfate to treat iron deficiency anemia in the post partum . METHODS Patients were r and omized ( 2:1 ratio ) to receive iron carboxymaltose  ( up to 3 weekly doses of 1000 mg maximum , applied in 15 min ; n=227 ) or ferrous sulfate ( 100 mg twice daily , 12 weeks ; n=117 ) . Changes in hemoglobin and iron stores up to week 12 were analyzed . RESULTS Iron carboxymaltose was as effective as oral iron sulfate in changing hemoglobin , despite the much shorter treatment period ( 2 weeks vs 12 weeks ) . Ferritin levels were significantly higher . Except for injection site burning , iron carboxymaltose was better tolerated than ferrous sulfate , mainly concerning gastrointestinal side effects . There were no safety concerns identified in breast-fed infants . CONCLUSION Parenteral iron carboxymaltose is a safe and effective treatment option for postpartum anemia , with advantages of a shorter treatment period , better compliance , rapid normalization of iron storages , and lower incidence of gastrointestinal side effects
Conclusions All currently available intravenous iron preparations appear to be safe and effective , but ferric carboxymaltose seems to provide a better and quicker correction of haemoglobin and serum ferritin levels in iron-deficient patients
Background Iron deficiency is very common in a number of medical conditions .
Ferric carboxymaltose is a new stable iron preparation that can be administered in single infusions over short periods of time .
The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of r and omised controlled trials ( RCTs ) regarding the efficacy and safety of the novel complex compared with other iron formulations .
In addition , the feasibility of a network meta- analysis for indirect comparisons was investigated .