COMPARATIVE BIOTECHNOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF IRON SUPPLEMENTATION MODALITIES FOR PREGNANCY-RELATED ANEMIA: INTRAVENOUS IRON SUCROSE VS. ORAL FERROUS FUMARATE AND SULFATE

Pregnancy-related anemia, primarily due to iron deficiency, poses significant risks to both maternal and fetal health. Objective: The primary objective of this study is to compare the biotechnological efficacy of intravenous iron sucrose, oral ferrous fumarate, and oral ferrous sulfate in treating pregnancy-related anemia. This condition poses significant risks to maternal and fetal health. Methods: This cross-sectional study at Shalamar Hospital, Lahore (January-December 2023), involved 270 pregnant women with iron deficiency anemia. These women were randomized into three groups (90 each) receiving intravenous iron sucrose, oral ferrous fumarate, or oral ferrous sulfate. Data collected through interviews, records, and lab tests assessed hemoglobin, ferritin, and CBC at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, along with adverse effects, treatment adherence, quality of life, and biomarkers. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS with ANOVA and Chi-square tests (p < 0.05). Results: The study included 270 pregnant women with iron deficiency anemia, divided into three groups of 90 receiving intravenous iron sucrose, oral ferrous fumarate, or oral ferrous sulfate. After 12 weeks, intravenous iron sucrose had the highest hemoglobin (13.90 g/dL) and serum ferritin (55.23 ng/mL) levels. It also showed superior iron bioavailability (92.04%), absorption rate (85.18 μg/min), and biochemical response (89.23). Additionally, it had the lowest oxidative stress markers and fewer side effects, with higher treatment satisfaction than the other groups. Conclusion: Intravenous iron sucrose demonstrated the highest effectiveness in treating pregnancy-related anemia, significantly improving hemoglobin levels and serum ferritin compared to oral ferrous fumarate and ferrous sulfate.