The American journal of medicine
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Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and adjuvant intravenous iron have been the primary treatment for anemia in chronic kidney disease. Recent clinical and policy-related events have challenged this traditional paradigm, particularly in regard to erythropoiesis-stimulating agents. Less is known about the impact of these events on intravenous iron use. ⋯ Anemia management patterns have changed markedly between 2002 and 2008, with a steady increase in intravenous iron use even after declines in erythropoiesis-stimulating agent dose and hemoglobin. The clinical impacts of these changes need further evaluation.