Conclusions
Oral iron supplements are an inexpensive and effective way oftreating IDA patients and their administration, in the absenceof inflammation or significant ongoing blood loss, can correctanemia, provided significant doses of iron can be tolerated.In some clinical situations, oral iron is a less than idealtreatment because of the increased rate of gastrointestinaladverse events, particularly when using ferrous iron com-pounds, and the long course needed to resolve anemia andto achieve replenishment of body iron stores.In cases where oral iron is ineffective, associated withadverse events or cannot be used, IV iron compounds are treat-ment options.FCM has been available in Europe since its approval in 2007and in the USA since 2009; it is currently marketed in over 50countries and recently became available in Brazil.Since 2007 several trials have been completed, confirmingthe safety and effectiveness of FCM in the treatment of IDA ina variety of clinical settings.