Single-dose intramuscular iron dextran in pregnancy for anaemia prevention in urban Zambia.

One hundred and thirty-three pregnant Zambians from a low socio-economic group had 5 ml of iron dextran complex injected into each buttock at their first antenatal visit. The haemoglobin change between then and delivery was measured and compared with a similar group of 142 patients who served as controls. Of the treated group 84% showed a rise in haemoglobin level (mean change 1.025 g/dl) compared with 56% of the control group (mean change 0.26 g/dl). This regimen may be appropriate for areas where general health is poor, iron deficiency is common and antenatal care is hindered by distance, acceptance or compliance with tablet taking.