Treatment of Anemia Owing to Increased Menstrual Blood Loss: Activity of Physiological Modulators

Abstract

Background: Heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. The objective was to ascertain whether daily administration of a formula containing iron, essential amino acids, ascorbic acid and B-group vitamins for 28 days will increase hemoglobin levels by 0.5 g/dL and reduce menstrual bleeding. The formula (F) was conceived according to the physiological modulation concept to increase Hb levels and protect Hb from oxidation.

Methods: This is a single blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial on 26 anemic women (Hb < 12 g/dL) with heavy menstruation. Hemoglobin, iron balance, cell count and menstrual bleeding were measured after treatment with placebo and F.

Results: A much higher quantity of Hb was generated by treatment with F than expected (2.6 g/dL instead of 0.5 g/dL). The iron-related variables (iron, ferritin and transferrin), cell count (erythrocytes and platelets) and erythrocyte characteristics (mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)) improved. Menstrual blood flow decreased significantly.

Conclusion: There is no clear explanation of the results unless the F stimulates the mobilization of a "hidden" iron reserve, not detectable by ferritin levels, and triggers Hb synthesis and a decrease in menstrual bleeding.




J Hematol. 2015;4(2):164-170
doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jh215w