formulationsferric

Ferric formulations are pharmaceutical preparations that contain iron in the ferric oxidation state (Fe3+) coordinated to ligands. They are used to treat iron deficiency and related conditions, and they include both oral complexes and parenteral (intravenous) products. The chemical form and ligand structure influence bioavailability, iron release, and safety profiles, shaping clinical use in different patients.

Oral ferric formulations are relatively uncommon because ferric ions are poorly absorbed in the gut compared with ferrous forms. An exception is ferric maltol, a complex designed to improve intestinal uptake of iron and treat iron deficiency anemia. Most widely used oral iron supplements rely on ferrous salts rather than ferric ones.

Intravenous ferric formulations are carbohydrate-encapsulated iron complexes designed for rapid iron repletion. Examples include ferric carboxymaltose, ferric gluconate, and iron sucrose. In chronic kidney disease, ferric citrate is used as a phosphate binder, while ferric pyrophosphate citrate can be added to dialysis solutions to provide iron during treatment.

Clinical use requires consideration of indications, dosing, and monitoring. Intravenous iron carries risks of infusion reactions and iron overload with long-term exposure, though newer formulations have lower hypersensitivity risk than older preparations. Regulatory status and labeling vary by country, and clinicians select a product based on anemia severity, kidney disease status, prior reactions, and treatment setting.