A patient on ferrous sulfate 325 mg twice daily complains of a bad taste. Which once-daily oral iron formulation would provide similar elemental iron and improve tolerability?

The choice of polysaccharide-iron complex 150 mg as a once-daily oral iron formulation is appropriate because it typically contains a well-tolerated form of iron that can offer similar amounts of elemental iron compared to the ferrous sulfate the patient is currently taking.

Polysaccharide-iron complex is designed to improve gastrointestinal tolerability and minimize some common side effects associated with iron supplements, such as stomach upset or a metallic taste. This formulation's unique delivery system allows for better absorption and reduces the release of free iron in the stomach, which is often responsible for the unpleasant taste and gastrointestinal discomfort seen with other formulations.

In contrast, other options may not provide the same level of tolerability or elemental iron equivalent. For instance, while ferrous gluconate and other formulations may provide useful amounts of iron, the total elemental iron they deliver could be lower when compared to the needs established by the patient's current dosing of ferrous sulfate. By selecting polysaccharide-iron complex, a potentially lower dose can still meet the elemental iron requirement while improving the patient's experience with the medication.