Ferric Pyrophosphate in Iron Deficiency Anemia Management: An Updated Reviewof Current Practices, Bioavailability Enhancement Techniques, and FutureDirections

According to the World Health Organization, Anemia is a health concern that impacts a substantial number of individuals globally, with 50% of cases due to iron deficiency and the remaining 50% being caused by other conditions and vitamin deficiencies. Iron deficiency anemia can cause several health issues, such as weakness, exhaustion, poor cognitive function, and a higher chance of pregnancy difficulties. Iron supplementation, particularly through dietary sources and supplement formulations, is fundamental in addressing this condition and is favored for managing mild to moderate cases. Ferrous and ferric iron are two types of iron that are often employed. Ferric pyrophosphate is a novel compound, complexed with pyrophosphate, is directly absorbed in the intestine, particularly by M cells in the duodenum. Ferric pyrophosphate is favored due to its higher elemental iron content, superior bioavailability, tolerability, and minimal impact on food color, taste, and texture. This review offers an in-depth investigation of ferric pyrophosphate as an alternative therapy for iron deficiency anemia because no review article currently available has compiled the research trends, benefits, and drawbacks of this drug. It summarizes pre-clinical and clinical studies on ferric pyrophosphate, exploring its pathogenesis, chemistry, safety, and efficacy.