Ferric carboxymaltose for iron deficiency in patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Aim: Iron deficiency (ID) is associated with heart failure (HF) in a considerable proportion of patients. To improve the quality of life, lower the frequency of hospitalizations, and lower mortality rates of chronic HF patients (HF), this meta-analysis will look into the role of iron supplementation using ferric carboxymaltose (FCM). Methods & results: From inception until 1 October 2023, we conducted a thorough literature search of electronic databases for peer-reviewed publications. Around 5229 HF patients were included, of which 2691 received FCM while 2538 received placebo. Conclusion: FCM reduces HF-related hospitalizations but doesn't improve overall or cardiovascular mortality in those with HF and ID. The overall results support FCM's role in managing iron deficiency in heart failure.

Heart failure (HF) patients often suffer from iron deficiency (ID), worsening their symptoms and quality of life. Intravenous iron therapy, like ferric carboxymaltose (FCM), has been studied for its benefits in HF. This meta-analysis looked at existing research and found that FCM treatment reduced hospitalizations for HF but didn't significantly impact overall mortality. Although FCM improves patients' lives, more research is needed to understand its long-term effects fully. This study highlights the importance of addressing ID in HF management and supports FCM therapy as a beneficial option for HF patients.

Iron deficiency is prevalent in patients with heart failure (HF), impacting their quality of life and overall prognosis.

Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is recommended to enhance the quality of life in iron-deficient HF patients, particularly those with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction.

FCM treatment is associated with a significant reduction in the combined outcome of hospitalizations for HF and cardiovascular mortality.

While FCM does not appear to reduce overall mortality or cardiovascular mortality in iron-deficient HF patients, it improves symptoms, functional capacity and quality of life.

FCM offers a cost-effective and well-tolerated option for correcting iron deficiency in HF, potentially reducing the disease burden on healthcare systems.