# Effect of food on iron absorption in patients with iron deficiency anemia treated with ferric citrate hydrate

## TL;DR

This study found that food does not significantly reduce iron absorption when taking ferric citrate hydrate for iron deficiency anemia.

## Contribution

The study provides new evidence that food intake does not hinder iron absorption from ferric citrate hydrate in anemic patients.

## Key findings

- Serum iron levels increased under both fasting and fed conditions.
- ΔCmax and ΔAUC0-24 values were 39% and 29% higher in fed conditions.
- No adverse events were reported in patients taking ferric citrate hydrate.

## Abstract

Iron absorption after the administration of oral iron preparations following a meal is generally reduced compared with fasting. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of food on iron absorption following ferric citrate hydrate administration in patients with iron deficiency anemia. A randomized, open-label, two-cohort, two-period, single-dose crossover study was conducted to assess the effect of food on iron absorption when 500 mg ferric citrate hydrate (approximately 120 mg of ferric iron) was administered under fasted and fed (immediately after a meal) conditions. Twelve patients aged 20–45 years with iron deficiency anemia (hemoglobin: male 8.0–13.0 g/dL, female 8.0–12.0 g/dL; serum ferritin < 12 ng/mL; transferrin saturation ≤ 16%), participated. The maximum serum iron concentration change was defined as ΔCmax, and the area under the serum iron concentration change versus time curve from baseline to 24 h after administration as ΔAUC0-24. Serum iron levels increased regardless of fasting or fed conditions, and the ΔCmax and ΔAUC0-24 values were 39% and 29% higher, respectively, under fed versus fasting conditions. No adverse events were reported. In conclusion, food had no notable effect on iron absorption following ferric citrate hydrate administration in patients with iron deficiency anemia.