IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA AND VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Anemia affects one fourth of the world’s population in that iron deficiency is the predominant cause. Patients with iron deficiency anemia in majority of cases will be of gastrointestinal origin. Proper management result in improving quality of life and elevates symptoms of iron deficiency. Timely management reduces the need for Blood Transfusions. Treatment options include oral and intravenous therapy; However, the efficacy of oral iron is limited in certain gastrointestinal conditions. Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common cause of megaloblastic anemia and various neuropsychiatric symptoms. Screening may be recommended in patients having more risk factors such as gastric or small intestine resections, poor diet and with other GIT manifestations. This article provides a critical summary of Clinical and Pharmacological approach to management of iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.