Problem 13: Management of Anaemia Flashcards
Explain why Anna has been prescribed ferrous sulphate? How long does the patient need to take this for?
Ferrous sulfate is prescribed for iron deficiency anaemia (or prophylaxis).
The aim of iron therapy is to replenish iron stores. Iron is essential for erythropoeisis (formation of new rbc) - it is required for synthesis of haem component of Hb. Iron is best absorbed into blood in ferrous form; once absorbed it is used in bone marrow for erythropoeisis or to be stored as ferritin in the liver.
Common side effects: GI upset, including nausea and epigastric pain. (absorbed in the duodenum and jejunum.
Its absorption is increased by vitamin C or stomach acid.
For treatment of iron deficiency then it should be taken for a further 3 months after measurements have returned to normal.
