Iron deficiency anaemia remains a significant global health concern, affecting millions worldwide.

Despite established treatment regimens, iron supplementation often fails due to various factors. However, recent advancements in oral iron supplementation technology offer promising solutions, heralding a new era in the treatment of iron deficiency.

THE PREVALENCE OF IRON DEFICIENCY: A GLOBAL CHALLENGE

Iron deficiency is the most common micronutrient deficiency globally, affecting approximately three out of four individuals. It is a leading contributor to the global disease burden, with as many as 60-80% of the world's population at risk. Notably, pregnant women and young children are disproportionately affected, highlighting the severity of the issue.

UNDERSTANDING IRON DEFICIENCY ANAEMIA

Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when iron levels in the body are insufficient to produce an adequate amount of haemoglobin, leading to decreased oxygen transport. This condition can result in a myriad of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and cognitive impairments.

CHALLENGES WITH TRADITIONAL ORAL IRON SUPPLEMENTS

Traditional oral iron supplements face numerous challenges, including poor bioavailability, gastrointestinal toxicity, and side effects such as constipation and nausea. These limitations contribute to treatment non-adherence and the persistence of iron deficiency anaemia in affected individuals.

DAWN OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY

SunActive™ Iron represents a groundbreaking advancement in oral iron supplementation technology. Unlike traditional iron salts, SunActive™ Iron utilises endosomal ferric pyrophosphate (FePP) with an average particle size of ~0.3 µm, enhancing its absorption and bioavailability.

ENDOSOMAL ABSORPTION MECHANISM

SunActive™ Iron employs endocytosis through intestinal microfold cells (M-cells) for absorption, bypassing traditional absorption pathways and minimising interactions with other minerals and food components. This unique mechanism ensures improved gastrointestinal tolerability and efficacy compared to conventional iron supplements.

KEY ADVANTAGES OF SUNACTIVE™ IRON

• Enhanced bioavailability: SunActive™ Iron offers comparable bioavailability to soluble ferrous sulphate, ensuring effective iron replenishment.
• Improved tolerability: Its unique formulation reduces the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, enhancing patient adherence to treatment.
• Reduced oxidative risk: SunActive™ Iron's molecular structure prevents oxidation-associated side effects, mitigating potential health risks.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PHARMACISTS

Pharmacists play a crucial role in educating patients about iron deficiency anaemia and recommending appropriate treatment options. With the emergence of innovative technologies like SunActive™ Iron, pharmacists can now offer patients a more effective and tolerable oral iron supplementation solution.

By embracing the latest innovations in oral iron supplementation, pharmacists can significantly impact patient outcomes and contribute to addressing the pervasive issue of iron deficiency anaemia on a global scale.

*SOURCE: Medical Chronicle