Shield Therapeutics (AIM:STX)  has noted the recent publication of two papers concerning its lead product to treat iron deficiency, Feraccru ® /Accrufer®, in two scientific journals. 
 
The first study in the European Respiratory Journal showed that ferric maltol, a component of Feraccru/Accrufer, was ‘well tolerated’ by a majority of pulmonary hypertension sufferers. 
 
The group said the use of ferric maltol had resulted in ‘significant improvements in iron status and haemoglobin levels after 12 weeks of treatment.’ 
 
It said the changes were accompanied ‘by signs of improved right ventricular function and improved exercise capacity, supporting the notion that iron deficiency has detrimental effects in patients with PH and that treating iron deficiency anaemia in these patients is important.’ 
 
Shares in Shield Therapeutics were trading 2.09% higher at 97.5p on Wednesday morning. 

Despite being a small open label study, the group said results suggest that oral iron supplementation with ferric maltol might become a safe, effective and convenient treatment option for patients with PH and iron deficiency. 
 
A second paper was also published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine recognising the importance of maintaining iron treatment in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. 
 
It stated that oral iron, preferably ferric maltol, could be a suitable alternative for many patients to IV iron and could reduce all non-essential hospital activities. 
 
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