Nutritional Disorder
Medications

Types of Medications & How They Work

Below is a list of medications used to treat the most common nutritional deficiencies.

Iron Deficiency Anaemia

• Iron Supplementation – Iron deficiency anaemia is typically treated with iron supplementation, which may be prescribed in the form of oral iron supplements or intravenous (IV) iron therapy, depending on the severity of the condition.

Oral iron supplements are the most common treatment, and they are available over the counter or by prescription. These supplements typically contain ferrous sulphate, ferrous fumarate, or ferrous gluconate.

IV iron therapy may be used when oral supplements are not well-tolerated or when a person is unable to absorb iron properly.

In addition to iron supplementation, healthcare professionals may also recommend dietary changes to increase the intake of iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, spinach, and fortified cereals. Always follow a healthcare professional’s guidance on iron supplementation, as excessive iron intake can be harmful.

Vitamin D Deficiency

• Vitamin D Supplementation – The type and dosage of vitamin D supplement will depend on the severity of the deficiency, as well as a person’s age and overall health. Commonly prescribed vitamin D supplements include cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) and ergocalciferol (vitamin D2), which are available in oral or liquid forms.

Higher doses of vitamin D may be prescribed for individuals with severe deficiencies or underlying medical conditions.

Iodine Deficiency

• Iodine supplementation – Potassium iodide and sodium iodide are commonly used to treat iodine deficiency, and these supplements are available in tablet or liquid forms. The dosage of iodine supplementation will depend on the severity of the deficiency and a person’s age and overall health.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

• B12 Supplementation – Commonly prescribed vitamin B12 supplements include cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, and methylcobalamin, which are available in oral, injectable, or nasal spray forms.

Injections are typically used for individuals with severe deficiency, malabsorption issues, or those who are unable to take oral supplements.

Calcium Deficiency

• Calcium supplementation – Calcium carbonate and calcium citrate are commonly used to treat calcium deficiency, and these supplements are available in tablet or liquid forms.

Protein Energy Malnutrition

• Protein-energy malnutrition – Specialized nutritional supplements or formulas that are designed to provide adequate amounts of protein, calories, vitamins, and minerals. These supplements may be given orally or through a feeding tube, depending on the severity of the malnutrition.
• Intravenous fluids – In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for close monitoring and specialized medical care, including intravenous fluids and medications to address underlying medical conditions that may have contributed to malnutrition.
• Antibiotics – Antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat infections that commonly occur in individuals with severe protein-energy malnutrition.

Obesity

• Appetite Suppressants – Phentermine, which reduces feelings of hunger, and lipase inhibitors, such as orlistat, which block the absorption of dietary fat. Liraglutide works by slowing down digestion and promoting feelings of fullness.
• Bariatric surgery – Surgery may also be recommended for individuals with severe obesity who have not achieved significant weight loss with lifestyle changes and medication.