Ferric maltol (ST10): a novel oral iron supplement for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in inflammatory bowel disease

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia affects up to three quarters of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It can significantly impact the quality of life and the ability to work by impairing physical, emotional, and cognitive functioning. The etiology of iron deficiency anemia is multifactorial and oral or intravenous iron replacement is necessary. However, oral iron supplements are often discontinued prematurely due to poor tolerability or insufficient efficacy. Moreover, intravenous supplementation is inconvenient, associated with potentially serious safety risks, and a burden on healthcare resources.

Areas covered: Ferric maltol is a novel ferric iron compound with potential use as an oral therapy for iron deficiency anemia. This overview explains how the molecule's design impacts clinical outcomes and summarizes available clinical data (ranging from early comparisons with ferrous sulfate to randomized, placebo-controlled, Phase III data in patients with IBD known to be intolerant of oral ferrous products).

Expert opinion: Ferric maltol offers the ability to treat iron deficiency anemia in mild-to-moderate IBD without resorting to intravenous therapy, even in those who are intolerant of oral ferrous products. This clinical benefit has the potential to change treatment pathways and increase choice, not only in IBD but also perhaps in many areas beyond gastroenterology.