Iron plays a pivotal role in numerous biological functions and is often the first-line treatment for iron deficiency anemia (IDA). While specific guidelines exist for treating IDA with iron, there is still insufficient evidence to prove the benefits of iron supplementation in individuals with iron deficiency (ID) who are not anemic.[1]
In clinical practice, iron is commonly prescribed to menstruating women due to the increased blood loss, and during pregnancy to meet heightened metabolic demands and prevent IDA, which could have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby.[2][3]
ID is also a risk factor for heart failure (HF). Iron supplementation in individuals affected by HF appears to reduce the rates of hospitalization and the severity of HF symptoms.[4][5] Hemoglobin, ferritin and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) levels also seem to be increased by iron,[4] and one meta-analysis also noted that exercise capacity and quality of life were improved after iron supplementation in people with HF.[5]
Iron is also a key component in the brain, and studies involving children have shown that supplementation may improve memory and concentration.[6] However, more quality research is needed to verify these results.
The question of whether iron supplementation benefits infants and young adults remains a topic of debate necessitating further research. One meta-analysis, which included children and adolescents ranging from 1 month to 19 years old, found that iron supplementation increased Hb and ferritin levels, particularly with frequent supplementation over longer periods, and resulted in reduced prevalence of overall anemia, ID, and IDA.[7]
Finally, one meta-analysis demonstrated that both oral and IV iron supplementation appeared to improve symptoms of restless leg syndrome (RLS). Specifically, IV supplementation with ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) was associated with a significant improvement in quality of life (QOL) scores, although it had no noticeable effect on sleep quality.[8]