Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 29, 2025

Dynamic Light Scattering Analysis for the Determination of the Particle Size of Iron-Carbohydrate Complexes
Published on: July 7, 2023
Ferric Carboxymaltose Across All Ages in Paediatric Gastroenterology Shows Efficacy Without Increased Safety Concerns
Natasha Sasankan1, Hazel Duncan1, Lee Curtis1
1Royal Hospital for Children.
Insights
Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) effectively corrects iron deficiency anemia in pediatric gastroenterology patients. This treatment is safe and well-tolerated across all age groups, with minimal side effects when monitored carefully.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Hepatology
- Nutrition
- Hematology
Background:
- Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common condition in children, often requiring effective treatment.
- Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is an intravenous iron formulation used for IDA.
- Assessing FCM's efficacy and safety in pediatric gastroenterology is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in children and adolescents.
- To determine the side-effect profile of FCM in this pediatric population.
- To assess FCM's utility across various pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition indications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of pediatric gastroenterology patients (<18 years) treated with FCM from October 2015 to October 2017.
- Collection and analysis of hematological and biochemical parameters pre-infusion and at multiple time points post-infusion (4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year).
- Documentation of any recognized side-effects associated with FCM administration.
Main Results:
- Sixty-one pediatric patients received FCM, with a median age of 14 years.
- Median hemoglobin increased significantly from 108 to 126 g/L at 1 month post-infusion (P < 0.00001).
- 94% of children corrected their anemia; 3% reported minor side effects like bruising and staining.
Conclusions:
- Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is an effective treatment for IDA in children across diverse gastroenterology indications and age groups.
- FCM is generally well-tolerated, even in very young patients.
- Careful monitoring during infusions can help prevent potential side effects.
Objectives:
The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy, safety and side-effect profile of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) for correcting IDA in children and adolescents in paediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition.
Method:
This was a retrospective study of all gastroenterology patients <18 years who had FCM (October 2015 to October 2017). Haematological and biochemical parameters were recorded pre-infusion, at 4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year post-infusion. Recognised side-effects were documented.
Results:
Sixty-six children received FCM during this period. Data was analysed on 61 children, 5 excluded because of inadequate data. The median age at administration was 14 years (IQR 7). Thirty-two (52%) were boys. Twenty-six (42%) were <14 years old. Seven (11.5%) were <5 years old. Seventeen (28%) were switched from oral iron supplements to FCM. The median dose of FCM delivered was 19 mg/kg. The median haemoglobin increased from 108 to 126 g/L at 1 month post-infusion (P value <0.00001). The mean cell volume also improved from 80 to 84 fL at 1 month post-infusion (P value = 0.0007). Forty-eight (94%) children corrected their anaemia after receiving FCM. Two patients (3%) reported side-effects with skin bruising and staining.
Conclusions:
FCM appears to be effective in correcting IDA in children across a wide range of gastroenterology indications and all ages. It is effective and generally well tolerated including in very young patients. Potential side-effects can be avoided by careful monitoring during infusions.
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Distribution
Drug Dosing: Infants and Children
Enteral Nutrition II: Nasointestinal and Gastrostomy Feeding
Nasointestinal Feeding
Nasointestinal feeding involves placing a tube...

