A randomized, controlled trial comparing IV iron sucrose to oral iron in anemic patients with nondialysis-dependent CKD.

Background: Although iron deficiency frequently complicates anemia in patients with nondialysis-dependent CKD (ND-CKD), the comparative treatment value of IV iron infusion and oral iron supplementation has not been established.

Methods: In a randomized, controlled multicenter trial, we compared the efficacy of iron sucrose, given as 1 g in divided IV doses over 14 days, with that of ferrous sulfate, given 325 mg orally thrice daily for 56 days in patients with ND-CKD stages 3 to 5, Hb < or =11 g/dL, TSAT < or =25%, and ferritin < or =300 ng/mL. Epoetin/darbepoetin therapy, if any, was not changed for eight weeks prior to or during the study.