What is the correct daily enteral iron dose for preterm infants one month after birth?

What is the correct daily enteral iron dose for preterm infants one month after birth?

• A. 0.5-1 mg/kg/d
• B. 1-2 mg/kg/d
• C. 5-6 mg/kg/d
• D. 2-4 mg/kg/d

Answer: (D)

Preterm infants have limited iron stores and rapid growth, so they need ongoing enteral iron to support erythropoiesis and prevent deficiency. Around one month of age, the standard approach is to provide elemental iron at about 2 mg/kg per day, with the dose commonly rising toward 4 mg/kg per day if there are higher risk factors for deficiency or slower iron accumulation (for example, exclusive breastfeeding or lower iron stores). This range ensures enough iron is available without risking overload. Dosing lower than 2 mg/kg/day may not meet the increased needs of preterm infants, and doses higher than 4 mg/kg/day are not routinely recommended due to potential toxicity.

Preterm infants have limited iron stores and rapid growth, so they need ongoing enteral iron to support erythropoiesis and prevent deficiency. Around one month of age, the standard approach is to provide elemental iron at about 2 mg/kg per day, with the dose commonly rising toward 4 mg/kg per day if there are higher risk factors for deficiency or slower iron accumulation (for example, exclusive breastfeeding or lower iron stores). This range ensures enough iron is available without risking overload. Dosing lower than 2 mg/kg/day may not meet the increased needs of preterm infants, and doses higher than 4 mg/kg/day are not routinely recommended due to potential toxicity.