The Hospital for Sick Children,
Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition,
555 University Avenue,
Toronto, ON
Canada
M5G 1X8
FAX# 416-813-4972
STUDIES
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For the past 150 years or more, oral ferrous sulphate drops or syrup has been the primary source of iron for the treatment (and prevention) of iron deficiency anemia. When a soluble form or iron (such as ferrous sulphate) is ingested in the proper dose, this intervention is effective. However, adherence to long-term ingestion of oral drops is often poor because of the unpleasant metallic taste of drops; drops can stain a baby’s teeth unless wiped off immediately after use; and if the dose is high, the infant may complain of abdominal discomfort.
Supplefer Sprinkles was specifically developed to improve adherence (ie. acceptance and use). Compared to drops or syrup,
Sprinkles are easier to use. The table below exemplifies this point. Sprinkles may provide a possible
solution to the problem of adherence and a valuable supplementation method (Taken from Zlotkin, 2002-Editorial).
| Supplefer Sprinkles |
Drops/Syrups |
| No taste or after-taste |
Strong metallic taste |
| Does not stain teeth |
May stain teeth |
| One dose per sachet-easy to use and overdose unlikely |
Use dropper to measure quantity-may lead to overdose if measured incorrectly |
| Light package, easy to transport |
Heavy, especially glass bottles, expensive to ship and transport |
| Iron encapsulated to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort |
Iron may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, stomach aches |
| Other vitamins/minerals may be added to formulation |
Contains only iron, no other vitamins or minerals |
What are Supplefer Sprinkles?
Micronutrient deficiencies
Iron deficiency
Strategies to treat and prevent iron deficiency
Methods of Supplementation
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