Role of FCM in Prevention of Anemia in Pregnancy, Complications and Effects

Dr. Bharti Maheshwari, Dr. Arul Divya Priya

Abstract: Introduction: Anemia during pregnancy poses a significant health challenge, particularly in India where it contributes notably to maternal mortality. The prevalence of anemia in pregnant women varies widely across the region, necessitating interventions like oral and parenteral iron therapies. Parenteral iron, especially Ferric Carboxymaltose (FCM), has emerged as a favorable alternative due to its efficacy and lower incidence of side effects compared to traditional oral iron supplements. Aim and Objective: The study aims to assess the effectiveness of FCM in comparison to oral iron supplements in preventing anemia and its complications in pregnant women. Objectives include evaluating the impact of FCM on hemoglobin levels, compliance, and incidence of side effects. Methodology: This randomized controlled trial will enroll 100 pregnant women with anemia from a tertiary care hospital. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either oral iron tablets or intravenous FCM. Hemoglobin levels will be monitored regularly, and data will be analyzed using SPSS software to compare the outcomes between the two groups. Results: Initial findings suggest no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the groups. However, the FCM group experienced fewer hospital visits and showed a trend towards fewer complications and side effects compared to the oral iron group. The results indicate a potential for better compliance and effectiveness with FCM. Conclusion: FCM may offer a more efficient and patient - friendly approach to managing anemia in pregnancy than traditional oral iron supplements. Further studies are required to fully understand its benefits and optimize its use in clinical practice.

Keywords: Anemia, Pregnancy, Ferric Carboxymaltose (FCM), Oral Iron Supplements, Hemoglobin, Maternal Mortality, Iron Therapy, Parenteral Iron, Iron Sucrose, Randomized Controlled Trial, Compliance, Adverse Effects, Hospital Visits, Pregnancy Complications