Abstract: Methods and compositions of matter are provided that enable a phased reduction of body iron stores to near a iron deficiency level, and thereafter maintain the body iron stores at that level by reducing further iron accumulation. In a first phase, a patient's body iron stores are reduced to a level of near iron deficiency by regular periodic phlebotomy or use of pharmacological agents, such as iron chelators, for example, over a period of six to twelve months. In a second phase, ingested iron absorption is controlled using an oral dose, taken at mealtimes, of any of various compounds that inhibit intestinal iron absorption, or by continuing, less frequent phlebotomy.

Abstract: Methods and compositions of matter are provided that enable a phased reduction of body iron stores to near a iron deficiency level, and thereafter maintain the body iron stores at that level by reducing further iron accumulation. In a first phase, a patient's body iron stores are reduced to a level of near iron deficiency by regular periodic phlebotomy or use of pharmacological agents, such as iron chelators, for example, over a period of six to twelve months. In a second phase, ingested iron absorption is controlled using an oral dose, taken at mealtimes, of compound comprising a calcium salt and salts of phytic acid, without or without zinc, or by continuing, less frequent phlebotomy.