Heme Iron Polypeptide in Iron Deficiency Anemia of Pregnancy: Current Evidence

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency leading to anemia in pregnancy. Conventionally, non-heme form of iron salts has been the mainstay of treatment. However, patient compliance is an important concern with existing oral iron therapy due to gastrointestinal side effects. Heme iron, a better bioavailable and tolerable form of iron can be suitable form of iron for supplementation in pregnancy. Evidence suggests its utility in pregnancy for treatment of iron deficiency anemia with benefits extending to postpartum period. Effective transfer across placenta to fetus further supports its utility in pregnancy. This review discusses in details the absorption kinetics along with clinical evidence on efficacy, safety, and tolerability of heme-iron supplementation in iron deficiency anemia of pregnancy.