Ferric Carboxymaltose Across all Ages in Paediatric Gastroenterology Shows Efficacy Without Increased Safety Concerns.

OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy, safety and side-effect profile of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) for correcting IDA in children and adolescents in paediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition. METHOD This was a retrospective study of all gastroenterology patients <18years who had FCM (October 2015 to October 2017). Haematological and biochemical parameters were recorded pre-infusion, at 4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year post-infusion. Recognised side-effects were documented. RESULTS 66 children received FCM during this period. Data was analysed on 61 children, 5 excluded due to inadequate data. The median age at administration was 14 years (IQR-7). 32 (52%) were male. 26 (42%) were <14 years old. 7 (11.5%) were <5 years old. 17 (28%) were switched from oral iron supplements to FCM. The median dose of FCM delivered was 19 mg/kg. The median haemoglobin increased from 108 g/l to 126 g/l at 1 month post-infusion (P value <0.00001). The mean cell volume also improved from 80 fl to 84 fl at 1 month post-infusion (P value = 0.0007). 48 (94%) children corrected their anaemia after receiving FCM. Two patients (3%) reported side-effects with skin bruising and staining. CONCLUSION FCM appears to be effective in correcting IDA in children across a wide range of GI indications and all ages. It is effective and generally well tolerated including in very young patients. Potential side-effects can be avoided by careful monitoring during infusions.