Comparison of intramuscular iron-dextran and oralferrous sulfate in the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia

Summary Seventy-two children with nutritionaliron-deficiency anemia were given iron-dextran complex intramuscularly. The average gain in hemoglobin in the first and second weeks after intramuscular therapy was 2.1 and 2.2 Gm. per cent in the 28 uncomplicated cases, 1.8 and 1.7 Gm. per cent in 19 cases complicated by infection, and 0.7 and 1.3 Gm. per cent in 9 cases complicated by lead poisoning. In 12 patients, with uncomplicated iron-deficiency anemia, receiving weekly injections, the gain for the first week was 1.4 Gm. per cent and 2.3 Gm. per cent for the second week. In the oral-iron group, this gain was about 1.0 Gm. per cent each week. Only one patient had staining of the skin at the site of injection. One patient developed urticaria after an iron-dextran injection. From these observations, it wouldappear that in situations where a rapid elevation of hemoglobin is important, injection of iron intramuscularly is desirable. Intramuscular iron also provides for a faster and surer way of replenishing depleted iron stores. Another indication for intramuscular iron is that of a careless mother who might not give the oral medication.