Iron Studied for Role in Childhood Attention and Behavior

by CP Staff

A recent study indicates childhood attention and behavior may be related to total iron stores in the body. Iron storage is measured as ferritin, which is a protein complex that stores and transports iron.

In this new clinical trial, 52 children and adolescents age 6 to 14 with moderate to severe behavioral or attention difficulties were supplemented with iron or placebo for 8 weeks. The subjects were evaluated for ferritin levels and response to stimulant medications at the beginning of the study and again after the supplementation period.

The results of the study demonstrated that the mean ferritin level in these children was 18.4 ng/mL. Additionally, 23 percent of the subjects were iron deficient with ferritin levels less than 7 ng/mL. Most importantly, the study showed that there was an association between increased ferritin levels and decreased inattention and behavioral difficulties. Furthermore, ferritin levels inversely correlated with the dosage required for improvement in behavior and attention with stimulant medication.

The researchers stated that this study adds to the growing amount of literature that suggests that iron deficiency plays a role in inattention and behavioral changes in children. They conclude that iron supplementation should be investigated as a potential way to help those with low iron stores optimize responses to medication.

Reference:

Calarge C, Farmer C, Disilvestro R, Arnold LE. Serum ferritin and amphetamine response in youth with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2010 Dec;20(6):495-502.

Note: Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under six. Iron levels should be tested in children prior to supplementation and children who are found to be deficient in iron should have their dosages and serum levels of iron monitored.