Kinetic studies on an intramuscular iron-poly (sorbitol-gluconic acid) complex.

Levels of iron and unsaturated iron binding capacity in serum and the renal excretion of iron were studied in 15 anaemic patients receiving Ferastral. Various dose schedules were used, 100 mg Fe daily for 10 days, 200 mg Fe daily for 5 days, and 500 mg Fe twice at various intervals from 2 to 7 days. A continuous increase of iron in serum was seen after the doses 100 mg and 200 mg daily as well as after 500 mg given at intervals of 2 and 3 days. Longer 500 mg dose intervals resulted in a fluctuation in the iron concentration. Peak levels varied between 740 and 5 260 microgram/100 ml (132 and 942 mumol/1). A transient decrease in the UIBC was seen. Urinary excretion of iron varied between 8.9 and 26.9% of the dose given. No local or general side effects occurred.