IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Abstract Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and vitamin B₁₂ deficiency anemia are among the most prevalent nutritional anemias worldwide, posing significant challenges to global health systems. This article explores the clinical and pharmacological approaches to their diagnosis, treatment, and management, emphasizing evidence-based and internationally accepted therapeutic protocols. The diagnostic evaluation includes hematological profiling, serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, vitamin B₁₂ levels, and bone marrow examination when necessary. Differential diagnosis is essential to distinguish between nutritional, chronic disease-related, and malabsorptive causes of anemia. Treatment strategies are discussed in alignment with World Health Organization (WHO) and international hematology society guidelines, highlighting oral and parenteral iron therapy for IDA and parenteral cyanocobalamin or hydroxocobalamin for vitamin B₁₂ deficiency. Special attention is given to treatment monitoring, adverse effects, and therapy in special populations such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly. The pharmacological section examines bioavailability, dosing regimens, and emerging novel iron formulations and vitamin B₁₂ delivery systems. Overall, this review integrates clinical insights with global therapeutic standards, aiming to optimize early diagnosis, effective treatment, and prevention strategies for iron and vitamin B₁₂ deficiency anemias.