Oral Iron Trial before Parenteral Iron Therapy for Outpatients: A Patient Survey.
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Implementation of an outpatient IV iron program required assessment of prior use of oral iron to ensure appropriate management of iron deficiency anemia and suitable IV iron stewardship. The patient perspective provides valuable and accessible insight into experiences with oral iron and opportunities to optimize therapy. Objectives: To describe prior use of oral iron among outpatients receiving IV iron therapy. Methods: This study, which was conducted between July 8 and November 13, 2024, involved a patient questionnaire (paper or electronic) and/or a semistructured interview. During the interview, a researcher provided a verbal version of the patient questionnaire (if not already completed in writing), in addition to follow-up questions to gather a deeper perspective of the patient experience. Patients were recruited by a nurse or self-identified after viewing a poster at the infusion clinic, which had a QR code with link to the survey. The questionnaire comprised 18 questions, covering demographic characteristics, history of oral iron use, understanding of the indication for IV iron, and additional comments. The data were analyzed descriptively. Results: Of the 138 respondents, more than three-quarters (110, 79.7%) reported having trialled oral iron, with oral administration being stopped due to patient-reported ineffectiveness (39/110, 35.5%) or intolerance (33/110, 30.0%); in addition, respondents commonly reported adverse effects of constipation (65/110, 59.1%), nausea (46/110, 41.8%), or abdominal pain (41/110, 37.3%). The most common formulations trialled were ferrous gluconate (42/110, 38.2%) and polysaccharide-iron complex (38/110, 34.5%) with various dosage regimens. More than half of the patients (66/110, 60.0%) took oral iron with food (including interacting foods) or other medications. Conclusions: Although most patients reported having trialled oral iron in the past, most of their regimens were suboptimal for absorption and tolerability. Oral iron is cost-effective and should be adequately trialled before IV iron is initiated. Pharmacists and prescribers have a role in optimizing the use of oral iron through patient education and routine follow-up for effectiveness and adherence.
Source: PubMed
DOI: 10.4212/cjhp.3973
Institution: Saskatchewan Health Authority
Language: English
Subfield: Hematology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225039442