What is the Difference Between Ferrous Sulphate and Iron Polymaltose?

Ferrous sulfate and iron polymaltose are both iron supplements used to treat iron deficiency anemia. However, there are some differences between the two:

1. Efficacy: Ferrous sulfate is considered to have a better clinical response and is more effective in increasing hemoglobin levels compared to iron polymaltose. One study found that children who received ferrous sulfate had higher hemoglobin levels after treatment.
2. Adverse Effects: Ferrous sulfate is associated with more significant gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea. On the other hand, iron polymaltose is claimed to have better patient compliance and fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
3. Chemical Composition: Ferrous sulfate is an inorganic compound, while iron polymaltose is an organic compound. Iron polymaltose is a combination of ferric iron with maltol, a food additive.
4. Bioavailability: Iron polymaltose has been developed as a molecule that is soluble at neutral pH and is not chelated by other substances, which may theoretically improve its bioavailability. However, studies have shown mixed results regarding the bioavailability of iron polymaltose compared to ferrous sulfate.

In summary, while both ferrous sulfate and iron polymaltose are used to treat iron deficiency anemia, ferrous sulfate is generally considered to be more effective in increasing hemoglobin levels but may cause more side effects. Iron polymaltose is claimed to have better patient compliance and fewer adverse effects, but its bioavailability may vary.

Comparative Table: Ferrous Sulphate vs Iron Polymaltose

Ferrous sulphate and iron polymaltose are both iron supplements used to treat iron deficiency anemia. Here is a table comparing the differences between the two:

Both ferrous sulphate and iron polymaltose are important supplements for treating iron deficiency anemia. However, ferrous sulphate is generally more effective in raising hemoglobin levels compared to iron polymaltose. Iron polymaltose complex and ferrous ascorbate are alternative treatments that claim to have better patient compliance and faster hemoglobin level increase, but more research is needed to confirm these claims.