Alternate Day Versus Daily Oral Iron Therapy in Adolescents

Iron deficiency anemia affects over half of girls and young women with heavy periods and is the most common cause of anemia worldwide. Most girls with heavy periods who also have iron deficiency anemia are prescribed iron to take by mouth every day by their doctor. There are some studies showing that taking iron every other day may actually help the iron be absorbed into the bloodstream better. This study is trying to compare how taking iron every other day compares to taking iron daily for treatment of anemia. The goal of this clinical research study is to learn which of the two methods of care will be the best way for girls and young women with iron deficiency anemia to take iron supplementation.