Liposomal iron dramatic effect on chronic kidney disease pediatric anemia: a randomized clinical trial

Sahar Kamal Hegazy1, Mai Salah El-Din Koura2, Mohamed Shokry Elharoun3

  • 1Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.

Pediatric Research
|October 1, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Oral liposomal iron is a safe and effective treatment for pediatric anemia caused by chronic kidney disease (CKD). This oral option shows higher efficacy than intravenous iron dextran, improving patient compliance and outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Hematology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Anemia in pediatric chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly impacts quality of life, causing hypoxia and concentration issues.
  • Conventional treatments for pediatric CKD-induced anemia include various iron supplements.
  • Intravenous (IV) iron dextran is a common treatment, but concerns exist regarding side effects and patient compliance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of oral liposomal iron compared to IV iron dextran for treating anemia in pediatric CKD patients.
  • To identify a safer, more effective, and patient-friendly treatment for pediatric CKD-associated anemia.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, parallel study involving 60 pediatric CKD patients.
  • Group 1 received oral liposomal iron (30 mg/day) for 3 months.
  • Group 2 received IV iron dextran (50 mg thrice weekly) for 3 months.

Main Results:

  • Both groups showed no statistically significant differences in key hematological and biochemical markers (Hb, RBCs, Ferritin, etc.) after 3 months.
  • Oral liposomal iron demonstrated higher efficacy within its group, with significant improvements in Hb, RBCs, HCT, MCV, RDW-CV, Hepcidin, Ferritin, Iron, TIBC, and Transferrin levels.
  • No side effects were reported with oral liposomal iron during the study period.

Conclusions:

  • Oral liposomal iron is more effective than IV iron dextran for treating pediatric CKD-induced anemia.
  • Oral liposomal iron offers a safe, effective, and potentially more compliant alternative to traditional IV treatments for pediatric anemia.
  • This study supports oral liposomal iron as a preferred treatment option, addressing the need for improved pediatric anemia management in CKD.
Abstract

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