Ferrous Citrate
[CAS# 23383-11-1]

Identification

• Name: Ferrous Citrate
• Synonyms: 2-(carboxymethyl)-2-hydroxybutanedioate iron(2+)
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₆FeO₇
• Molecular Weight: 245.95
• CAS Registry Number: 23383-11-1
• EC Number: 245-625-1
• SMILES: C(C(=O)O)C(CC(=O)[O-])(C(=O)[O-])O.[Fe+2]

Discovory and Applicatios

Ferrous citrate, a compound formed from citric acid and iron in its ferrous state, was first synthesized in the early 20th century as a response to the growing need for effective iron supplements. The compound was designed to improve the solubility and absorption of iron, addressing the limitations of earlier iron salts that were poorly absorbed and often caused gastrointestinal discomfort. Chemists discovered that the citrate anion could enhance iron's bioavailability while minimizing side effects. By the mid-1900s, ferrous citrate had become a valuable option in treating iron-deficiency anemia and was incorporated into various medicinal formulations, marking a significant advancement in nutritional and therapeutic iron supplementation.

Ferrous citrate is extensively used to treat iron-deficiency anemia, a common condition characterized by a lack of adequate healthy red blood cells due to insufficient iron. The ferrous form of iron is more readily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract compared to ferric iron. Ferrous citrate�s citrate component aids in its solubility and absorption, making it effective for increasing hemoglobin levels and replenishing iron stores. It is often preferred in clinical settings for its enhanced bioavailability and reduced gastrointestinal side effects, making it a suitable choice for individuals who cannot tolerate other iron supplements.

Ferrous citrate is a common ingredient in dietary iron supplements. It is formulated to provide an easily absorbable source of iron, essential for preventing and treating iron deficiency. This is particularly important for populations at risk, such as pregnant women, young children, and individuals with certain chronic conditions that lead to increased iron needs or reduced iron absorption. Ferrous citrate is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid supplements, providing flexible options to meet different dietary and medical needs.

The use of ferrous citrate in food fortification has gained popularity as a strategy to combat iron deficiency at a population level. It is added to cereals, flour, and other staple foods to improve their iron content. The fortification with ferrous citrate ensures that the iron is more bioavailable, which helps in maintaining adequate iron levels in the general population and reducing the prevalence of anemia, especially in regions where dietary iron intake is low.

In pediatric care, ferrous citrate is used to prevent and treat iron deficiency in children, who are particularly vulnerable to iron-deficiency anemia due to rapid growth and increased iron requirements. Liquid formulations of ferrous citrate are preferred for infants and young children because they are easier to administer and absorb. This ensures effective management of iron levels in pediatric patients, supporting their overall growth and cognitive development.

Ferrous citrate is noted for its improved gastrointestinal tolerance compared to other iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate. Its formulation helps reduce common side effects associated with iron supplementation, such as constipation, nausea, and abdominal pain. This advantage makes ferrous citrate a more appealing option for long-term iron supplementation, improving patient compliance and overall treatment efficacy.

Beyond its direct applications in health and nutrition, ferrous citrate is used in biomedical research to study iron metabolism and absorption. Its well-characterized absorption profile makes it a valuable tool for understanding how iron is processed in the body and for developing new therapies for iron-related disorders.