Ferrous sulfate versus iron polymaltose complex for treatment of iron deficiency anemia in children.

We assessed the clinical response and side effects of Ferrous sulfate (FS) and Iron polymaltose complex (IPC) in 118 children with Iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Subjects were randomized to receive therapy with either oral IPC (Group A, n=59) or oral FS (Group B, n=59); all were given elemental iron in three divided doses of 6 mg/kg/day. One hundred and six children could be followed up; 53 in each group. Children who received ferrous sulfate were having higher hemoglobin level, and less residual complaints as compared to those who had received iron polymaltose complex. Our study suggests ferrous sulfate has a better clinical response and less significant adverse effects during treatment of IDA in children.