The effect of 61 days of combined iron (Chemiron) and single iron therapy on haemoglobin, packed cell volume, platelets and reticulocytes during pregnancy. Preliminary report.

A 61-day short-term prospective study comparing the efficacy of Chemiron capsules (Ferrous Fumarate 300 mg, Folic Acid 5 mg, Vitamin B12 10 ug, Vitamin C 25 mg, Magnesium sulphate, 0.3 mg and Zinc Sulphate 0.3 mg) with conventional ferrous gluconate and folic acid administration has shown that both haematinic regimens improve haematological indices in normal pregnant women. A significant rise in haemoglobin was seen in the Chemiron group on days 5 and 19 whereas a significant increase in packed cell volume was observed on days 5, 19 and 61. There were no significant differences between the mean value of platelets during the therapy period in either group. A significant rise in the mean reticulocyte values could be demonstrated in the Chemiron group throughout the study period. This study further shows that Chemiron has a better haematological effect than Ferrous Gluconate at the dosage used.