All of the following are characteristic features of treatment of iron deficiency anemia with oral iron supplements, except :
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 requirements
In 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 a good response to treatment
Treatment with oral iron should be continued for 3-6 months. This will correct the anemia and replenish iron stores.