Oral Supplementation of Iron for Recovery in Anemia after GI Bleeding: results of the OSIRIS-AG study

Aims Anemia is the most common complication of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). Although blood transfusions are usually needed, anemia after discharge is still present. Data regarding the effects of oral iron supplementation on UGIB-induced anemia following discharge is lacking. Aim of the study was to assess the effects of oral iron supplementation on hemoglobin level and iron storage after discharge in patients with anemia secondary to nonvariceal UGIB.

Methods The study included 221 patients with nonvariceal UGIB who had anemia at discharge: 109 patients received oral iron supplementation (treatment group) and 112 patients did not receive (control group). Oral iron supplementation was represented by sucrose iron (30 mg/day). Successful iron supplementation was defined as a 2g/dl increase in Hemoglobin level after one month of treatment. Iron storage was assessed by serum ferritin and transferrin saturation after one month of treatment.

Results Successful iron supplementation was achieved in 62% of the patients in the treatment group and in 35% of the patients in the control group (adjusted risk ratio RR 2.88, p=0.004). Out of the 38% patients from the treatment group that did not have a successful iron supplementation, 88% had Helicobacter Pylori infection which may impair effective iron absorption. Iron storage (mean serum ferritin and mean transferrin saturation) was higher in the treatment group vs control group (p<0.05). No adverse effects were noticed din the treatment group.

Conclusions Oral iron supplementation is effective and safe in correcting UGIB-induced anemia after discharge. Prior Helicobacter Pylori infection eradication may increase the beneficial effects of oral iron.

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
27. März 2025