Lactoferrin Versus Ferrous Sulphate for Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anaemia During Pregnancy

The Effect of Orally Administered Iron-saturated Lactoferrin on Systemic Iron Homeostasis in Pregnant Women Suffering From Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anaemia

This study evaluates the efficacy and tolerability of lactoferrin in contrast to ferrous sulphate in the context of iron deficiency anemia with pregnancy.

Half of participants will receive lactoferrin, while the other half will receive ferrous sulphate.

Lactoferrin and Ferrous sulfate are used to treat iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy.

Ferrous sulphate is the most commonly used treatment for iron deficiency anemia.

Lactoferrin is a new generation oral iron that has long been recognized as a member of the transferrin family of proteins and an important regulator of the levels of free iron in the body fluids and has the ability to enhance iron binding. Preliminary evidence suggests that lactoferrin may represent a promising new strategy for oral iron replacement.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant women with single fetus
• Hb count < 11g/dL
• ferritin level < 12 ng/dL
• Gestational age (14 - 30 weeks)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Associated chronic medical disorder (CKD, liver disease, peptic ulcer and chronic blood loss).
• Associated bleeding disorder
• Anaemia requiring blood tranfusion (Hb < 7g/dL)
• Hypersensitivity to iron preparations
• Haemoglobinopathies (G6PD, thalassemias, sickle cell disease)