Study to evaluate the efficacy of ferric Carboxymaltose vs Iron sucrose in postpartum cases with iron deficiency anemia

Background: Postpartum iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major health concern, particularly in developing countries, contributing significantly to maternal morbidity, delayed recovery, and reduced quality of life. Rapid correction of anemia in the postpartum period is essential. Intravenous iron therapy has emerged as a preferred modality due to faster replenishment of iron stores and improved patient compliance. Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) and iron sucrose (IS) are commonly used intravenous iron formulations; however, comparative evidence in postpartum women remains limited. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose and iron sucrose in improving hemoglobin levels and hematological parameters in postpartum women with iron deficiency anemia. Materials and Methods: This prospective, observational, comparative study was conducted at Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai Medical College, over a period of 3 months (January–March 2019). A total of 100 postpartum women with hemoglobin 0.05). At 4 weeks, the mean hemoglobin level increased significantly in the FCM group (10.76 ± 0.60 g/dL) compared to the iron sucrose group (9.44 ± 0.58 g/dL) (p < 0.001). A higher proportion of patients in the FCM group achieved hemoglobin >10.5 g/dL (64% vs 2%). Hematocrit improvement was also significantly greater in the FCM group (84% achieving PCV >35% vs 20% in IS group; p < 0.001). Peripheral smear normalization was observed in 96% of patients in the FCM group compared to only 2% in the IS group (p < 0.001). Adverse drug reactions were minimal and comparable between the two groups (6% in FCM vs 12% in IS; p > 0.05). Conclusion: Ferric carboxymaltose is significantly more effective than iron sucrose in improving hemoglobin levels, hematocrit, and red cell morphology in postpartum iron deficiency anemia. Its single-dose administration, rapid action, and comparable safety profile make it a superior and more convenient therapeutic option for postpartum anemia management.