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Fractional iron absorption from enteric-coated ferrous sulphate tablet
Prashanth Thankachan1, Beena Bose1, Rajarajan Subramanian2
1Division of Nutrition, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
The Indian Journal of Medical Research
|May 29, 2020
Summary
Enteric-coated iron tablets show poor iron absorption in women compared to uncoated tablets. Uncoated ferrous sulphate (UCFS) tablets may offer better results for iron deficiency anaemia management.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Iron deficiency anaemia is a global health concern, often managed with iron supplementation.
- Enteric-coated iron tablets are used in India to mitigate gastrointestinal side effects and improve compliance.
- Limited data exist on iron absorption from enteric-coated ferrous sulphate formulations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify and compare iron absorption from enteric-coated ferrous sulphate (ECFS) and uncoated ferrous sulphate (UCFS) tablets.
- To assess the bioavailability of iron from different tablet formulations in iron-deficient women.
Main Methods:
- A stable isotopic approach was employed to measure iron absorption.
- Iron-deficient women (n=9) received labelled ECFS and UCFS tablets on consecutive days.
- Iron absorption was determined by analyzing changes in haemoglobin iron isotopic ratios.
Main Results:
- Iron absorption was significantly lower from ECFS (3.5%) compared to UCFS (12%).
- Eight women completed the study, demonstrating a clear difference in absorption rates.
Conclusions:
- Enteric-coated ferrous sulphate exhibits poor iron bioavailability.
- Supplementation programs should consider uncoated ferrous sulphate tablets for improved haematological outcomes.
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