Effectiveness of Combined Vitamin D and Iron Supplementation on Iron Status in Children with Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction:Vitamin D may reduce inflammation by affecting cytokine production, potentially alleviating chronic anemia. Iron deficiency can impair vitamin D absorption, yet the interaction between these deficiencies remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combined vitamin D and iron supplementation in treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in children. Methods:An open-label, randomized controlled trial was conducted at four outpatient clinics and Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital, Makassar, Indonesia. Of 250 assessed patients, 67 met the inclusion criteria. Participants were randomized into two groups:Group A received iron supplementation (3 mg/kg BW/day), while Group B received iron combined with vitamin D (400 IU). Treatment lasted 4 weeks, and iron status was evaluated pre- and post-treatment. Results:No significant changes were observed in complete blood count, serum iron, and ferritin levels after 4 weeks in either group (p>0.05). However, the mean change in serum ferritin levels was significantly greater in the combined group (p=0.039). Conclusion:Both iron alone and iron with vitamin D improved hematological parameters in children with iron deficiency anemia. Combined iron and vitamin D therapy showed a significant ferritin increase, suggesting that adding vitamin D may support better iron storage. J. Med. Invest. 72 : 337-342, August, 2025