Best treatment option for iron deficiency anemia?

• A. Folic acid.
• B. Vitamin B12.
• C. Prednisone.
• D. Ferrous sulfate.

Answer: (D)

Iron deficiency anemia is treated by restoring the body's iron stores to support ongoing hemoglobin production. The best first-line approach is oral iron supplementation, with ferrous sulfate being the most common and effective option to replete elemental iron. This form is absorbed in the gut and directly supports the production of hemoglobin; typical guidance is to take it in divided doses with vitamin C to enhance absorption, while avoiding calcium or antacids close to dosing since they can hinder uptake. You’d expect to see gradual improvements in symptoms and blood counts over weeks, with ferritin and transferrin saturation rising as stores replenish. Folic acid and vitamin B12 address different types of anemia (folate or B12 deficiency) and won’t correct iron deficiency, while prednisone isn’t used to treat iron deficiency. Therefore, ferrous sulfate is the best treatment option.