All of the following are characteristic features of treatment of iron deficiency anemia with oral iron supplements, except

Ans. (D) The treatment should be discontinued immediately once hemoglobin normalizes to prevent side effects of iron.(Ref: Katzung 11/e p571-572)A normal individual without iron deficiency absorbs 5-10% of iron, or about 0.5-1 mg daily. Iron absorption increases in response to low iron stores or increased iron requirementsIn an iron deficient individual, about 50-100 mg of iron can be incorporated into hemoglobin daily, and about 25% of oral iron given as ferrous salt can be absorbed. Therefore, 200-400 mg of elemental iron should be given daily to correct iron deficiency most rapidly.The reticulocyte count should begin to increase in two weeks and peak in 4 weeks. This suggests good response to treatmentTreatment with oral iron should be continued for 3-6 months. This will correct the anemia and replenish iron stores.