The Intravenous Use of High Molecular Ferric Carbohydrate Compound in the Treatment of Hypochromic Anemia

Twenty patients with hypochromic anemia were given a total of 211 intravenous injections of high molecular ferric carbohydrate compound. The hematologic response and toxic reactions are discussed.

High molecular ferric carbohydrate compound can be given in large enough doses to be practical in the treatment of iron deficiency anemias. The hematologic response, as judged by the rate at which hemoglobin regenerates and the reticulocyte count increases, is good. The initial dose would be 25 to 50 mg. of elemental iron, and subsequent daily doses should not be more than 200 mg.

Cases for the intravenous use of iron should be carefully selected because of the possible toxic reactions and the possible long-term damage to the tissues if excess amounts of irons are administered. The indications for the intravenous use of iron in iron deficiency anemias have been suggested. The dosage should be calculated so as to supply only enough iron to replace the irons deficiency and to allow regeneration of hemoglobin.