Supplefer Sprinkles / iron sprinkles : reducing global iron deficiency-methods of supplementation

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