Abstract

A claimed advantage of slow-release formulations of iron is that only one dose is required each day. In 1968¹ we concluded that the preparations of slow-release iron then available (Ferro-Gradumet - Abbott; Feospan - SKF) provided a simple and probably efficient means of treating iron deficiency, as long as at least 100 mg of elemental iron was taken daily. Such ‘once daily’ preparations should be taken on an empty stomach to allow maximal absorption; this does not increase the incidence of unwanted effects. Their greater cost is thus justified in patients unable to take one of the cheaper preparations three times daily.