Perceived benefits after supplementation with Ferro IBSA, an orodispersible film (ODF) to deliver iron and folic acid: Results of a 2025 digital survey
Giuseppe Martino, Elena Quarantelli, Immacolata Guarino, Alice Cipolli, Francesco Scanzi, Paola Tammaro, Aurelio Nirta, Iacopo Cavallo, Luca Sanchioni, Filippo Siragusa, Cecilia Lezcano, Sara Caponigro, Maria Giulia Manzione, Gilberto Bellia, Chiara LaruffaBackground
Restoring depleted iron levels requires taking iron supplements consistently for a definite period. Therefore, iron supplements must be easy to take, pleasant in taste and have minimal side effects to ensure adherence. Most of the common iron formulations have drawbacks such as metallic taste and gastrointestinal discomfort. Furthermore, solid forms are often unsuitable for children or adults with swallowing difficulties.
Aim
Ferro IBSA is an innovative food supplement (FS) containing iron and folic acid; the product is available as a thin orodispersible film (ODF) designed to disintegrate or dissolve in the mouth without needing water. Thanks to its unique formulation, this FS offers a promising alternative to traditional oral iron supplements and is likely to be favoured by individuals requiring daily supplementation due to its convenience and ease of use. However, there are no available data on the real-world use of this iron ODF FS.
Methods
The present article describes the results of a digital survey conducted in Italy on Ferro IBSA. The target population of the survey was represented by 84 final users who answered pre-defined questions before and after 40 days of administration of this FS.
Summary
The survey results revealed a high preference towards ODF when compared to other oral formulations. Furthermore, the intake of Ferro IBSA improved fatigue, energy level, concentration and overall well-being. Most users valued the formulation's practicality and ease of digestion, with their positive perception reflected in a high satisfaction rate. Such a survey approach could be extended to a larger population, other countries and adapted for different FSs targeting specific patient populations and contexts.