Abstract:

The following review of iron(III)-hydrox-ide polymaltose
complex (IPC, Maltofer®) shows that iron is significantly bioavail-able after oral administration, especially in irondeficient subjects. Numerous clin-ical trials in men, women, children and infants have shown that IPC is effective in treating iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). Due to its kinetic properties, IPC is best given with meals, and probably in an iron dose slightly higher than that of the clas-sical iron salts. In terms of acceptance and patient compliance, IPC presents a clear advantage over ferrous salts. Many studies have shown a lower
rate of treat-ment interruption with IPC than with fer-rous salts. This is usually associated with a lower incidence of adverse events relat-ed to the upper gastro intestinal tract.