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Iron Salts and Their Bioavailability: Which is Best?
Published on: August 7, 2024

Worried about Iron Deficiency? Explore Our Advanced Bioavailable Iron Salts

Iron, an essential mineral and Iron salts, the backbone of iron supplementation, plays a pivotal role in oxygen transport, energy production, and immune function. Iron deficiency anaemia, a global health concern, affects millions worldwide, especially women, children, and pregnant individuals.

Iron salts differ in bioavailability—the rate and extent to which iron is absorbed into the bloodstream. WBCIL (company name), a pioneer in iron supplementation, offers a range of iron salts, each with unique properties.

Understanding Iron Bioavailability

Iron absorption is influenced by factors such as dietary components, gut pH, and the type of iron salt. Bioavailability is crucial as it determines the efficacy of an iron supplement. Higher bioavailability translates to better iron absorption and quicker relief from iron deficiency.

 

Iron Salts

WBCIL provides various iron salts to cater to diverse patient needs:

Iron, an essential mineral, plays a pivotal role in oxygen transport, energy production, and immune function. Iron deficiency anaemia, a global health concern, affects millions worldwide, especially women, children, and pregnant individuals. Iron salts, the backbone of iron supplementation, differ in bioavailability—the rate and extent to which iron is absorbed into the bloodstream. WBCIL (company name), a pioneer in iron supplementation, offers a range of iron salts, each with unique properties.

Iron salts and its applications

Types of Iron Salts Available at WBCIL

WBCIL provides various iron salts to cater to diverse patient needs:

Iron Salt Formula CAS No. Synonyms Bioavailability Uses in Industry
Liposomal Iron Varies 10058-44-3 N/A High Supplements, pharmaceuticals
Ferric Citrate C6H5FeO7 2338-05-8 Ferric Trisodium Citrate Moderate CKD management, anemia treatment
Iron Isomaltoside Varies 1370654-58-2 N/A High Intravenous iron therapy
Iron III Hydroxide Polymaltose (C6H4FeO8)n 9007-72-1 Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex Good Oral iron supplements
Ferric Pyrophosphate Fe4(P2O7)3 10058-44-3 Iron(III) Pyrophosphate Relatively High Food fortification
Ferrous Ascorbate C12H14FeO12 24808-52-4 Ferrous Salt of Ascorbic Acid High Oral supplements, pharmaceuticals
Iron Sucrose C12H29Fe5Na2O23 8047-67-4 Iron Sucrose Injection High IV treatments for CKD
Ferrous Bisglycinate C24H44FeO25 20150-34-9 Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate Excellent Dietary supplements
Ferric Maltol C18H15FeO12 14484-47-0 Ferric Trimaltol Moderate Oral formulations
Ferric Ammonium Citrate C6H8FeNO7 1185-57-5 Ferric Ammonium Citrate Moderate Food fortification, supplements
Ferric Carboxymaltose C14H28FeO18 9007-72-1 Ferric Carboxymaltose Injection High IV iron repletion
Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate C6H5FeN2O7 1255-67-1 Ferric Pyrophosphate Soluble High Dialysis patients
Ferrous Asparto Glycinate C6H14FeN2O8 18488-81-4 Ferrous Glycinate Aspartate High Dietary supplements
Ferric Derisomaltose C6H12FeN2O8 104063-53-6 Iron Derisomaltose High Intravenous iron therapy
Ferric Orthophosphate FePO4 10045-86-0 Ferric Phosphate Moderate Food fortification
Ferrous Gluconate C12H22FeO14 299-29-6 Ferrous D-Gluconate Good Oral iron supplements
Ferrous Lactate C6H10FeO6 5905-52-2 Ferrous (II) Lactate Moderate Supplements, food fortification

Oral vs. Intravenous Iron Supplements

While oral iron salts are convenient, intravenous iron is reserved for severe iron deficiency or malabsorption cases. Intravenous iron offers rapid iron replenishment but requires medical supervision.

Recent Research and Developments at WBCIL

WBCIL’s research into iron salts is likely centered on addressing the challenges associated with traditional iron supplementation. This could involve developing novel iron delivery systems to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal side effects, or exploring the combination of iron with other essential nutrients to create comprehensive healthcare solutions. By focusing on patient-centric innovation, WBCIL may be striving to optimize iron supplementation for diverse populations, including those with specific nutritional needs.

Comparative analysis of the bioavailability of the listed iron salts:

Liposomal Iron: Liposomal encapsulation enhances iron absorption by protecting it from digestive degradation, leading to high bioavailability. This method allows iron to bypass the stomach and be absorbed directly in the intestines.

Ferric Citrate: This compound is moderately bioavailable and is often used in patients with chronic kidney disease to manage anemia and hyperphosphatemia. It releases iron slowly, which can be beneficial for sustained absorption.

Iron Isomaltoside: Known for its high bioavailability, iron isomaltoside is commonly used in intravenous formulations. It has a stable structure that allows for controlled release of iron, making it effective for rapid repletion of iron stores.

Iron III Hydroxide Polymaltose: This complex has good bioavailability and is less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects compared to ferrous salts. It is often used in oral formulations for treating iron deficiency.

Ferric Pyrophosphate: This compound is typically used in food fortification due to its stability and relatively high bioavailability. It is particularly effective when combined with enhancers like ascorbic acid.

Ferrous Ascorbate: Combining ferrous iron with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) significantly enhances its bioavailability. The ascorbate form is highly soluble and well-absorbed in the intestines.

Iron Sucrose: Widely used in intravenous treatments, iron sucrose has high bioavailability and is effective in rapidly correcting iron deficiency anemia, especially in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Ferrous Bisglycinate: This chelated form of iron is known for its excellent bioavailability and minimal gastrointestinal side effects. The bisglycinate complex is well-absorbed in the intestines.

Ferric Maltol: This compound has moderate bioavailability and is often used in oral formulations. It is known for being gentle on the stomach, which improves patient compliance.

Ferric Ammonium Citrate: This iron salt is used in food fortification and supplements. It has moderate bioavailability and is effective when consumed with meals.

Ferric Carboxymaltose: This intravenous iron preparation has high bioavailability and is used for rapid iron repletion. It releases iron slowly, reducing the risk of oxidative stress.

Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate: Used primarily in dialysis patients, this compound is highly bioavailable when administered intravenously. It is stable and releases iron in a controlled manner.

Ferrous Asparto Glycinate: This chelated form of iron has high bioavailability and is gentle on the gastrointestinal tract. It is often used in dietary supplements.

Ferric Derisomaltose: Similar to iron isomaltoside, this compound has high bioavailability and is used in intravenous formulations. It provides a controlled release of iron, ensuring effective absorption.

Ferric Orthophosphate: This compound has moderate bioavailability and is commonly used in food fortification. It is stable and effective when consumed with dietary enhancers.

Ferrous Gluconate: Known for its good bioavailability, ferrous gluconate is often used in oral iron supplements. It is well-absorbed and less likely to cause constipation compared to other ferrous salts.

Ferrous Lactate: This iron salt has moderate bioavailability and is used in both supplements and food fortification. It is relatively well-tolerated and effective in improving iron status.
Iron salts Bioavailability 1

Iron salts Bioavailability 2

 

WBCIL Holds Iron API Patents and its USP

WBCIL’s extensive knowledge in developing iron formulations is clearly demonstrated through their ownership of patents for a variety of iron active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Their innovative approach to iron delivery distinguishes them in the marketplace. WBCIL’s patent portfolio includes Ferric Carboxymaltose, Iron-Isomaltoside, Iron (III) Coordination Complex, Ferric Derisomaltose, Ferric Citrate, Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide, highlighting their comprehensive expertise in iron compound technology.

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Iron Supplement

Selecting the best iron supplement depends on factors like the severity of iron deficiency, underlying health conditions, and individual tolerance. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential for personalized recommendations.

Tips for Enhancing Iron Absorption

  • Consume iron-rich foods like lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, and fortified cereals.
  • Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources (citrus fruits, tomatoes) to enhance absorption.
  • Avoid consuming coffee or tea with meals as they inhibit iron absorption.

Conclusion

Iron salts play a vital role in managing iron deficiency. Understanding the bioavailability of different iron salts is crucial for selecting the most effective supplement. WBCIL’s commitment to research and innovation has led to the development of advanced iron formulations like liposomal iron. By combining the right iron supplement with dietary adjustments, individuals can effectively address iron deficiency and improve overall health.

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