Studies on an iron-poly(sorbitol-gluconic acid) complex for parenteral treatment of iron deficiency anaemia

A preparation containing an iron-poly(sorbitol-gluconic acid) complex for parenteral treatment of iron deficiency anaemia is described. The physical and chemical properties of the iron complex have been studied by using electrophoresis and gel permeation chromatography. A rapid absorption from the injection site after intramuscular administration to rabbits takes place, 70% of the iron being absorbed after 24-48 hours. Thereafter, the absorption rate is slower, and 32 days after the injection 94% has been absorbed from the injection site. In rabbits the maximum level of iron in serum is reached after 12-24 hours; in dogs after 1-3 hours. Disappearance from the serum takes place slowly. The complex is exclusively absorbed via the lymphatic route. Nine to ten per cent of the given dose is excreted by the kidney within 72 hours in rats and 24 hours in rabbits after intramuscular administration. On administration of the preparation to rats, made anaemic by phlebotomy, a rapid increase of haemoglobin values is observed as well as a very high utilization of the retained amount of the given dose.