Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

IRON DEXTRAN - INJECTION

(EYE-urn DEX-tran)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Dexferrum, Infed

WARNING: Infrequently, iron dextran for injection has caused severe (sometimes fatal) allergic reactions. It should be used only when clearly needed and when a patient is unable to take oral forms of iron. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itchy skin, breathing difficulty, or dizziness.

Uses

Iron, an essential mineral, is the major transporter of oxygen in the body. This medication is used to treat anemia or "iron-poor" blood in persons unable to take oral iron medication.

How To Use

This medication is given by injection usually once a day. Prior to the first full dose, a smaller test dose is given to check for possible allergic effects. If no reaction is observed after at least one hour, the full days dose may be given. The dose and duration of therapy is calculated based on your weight and condition.

Side Effects

Flushing, headache, tingling of the hands or feet, nausea, shivering or dizziness may occur. The area around the injection site may be tender, irritated or discolored (brown). If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Allergic reactions have been reported. Notify your doctor if you develop: breathing trouble, itching, skin rash, muscle aches, fever. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: blood disorders, liver disease, asthma, arthritis, allergies. This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: other vitamin products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If you or someone you know may have used more than the recommended dose of this medicine, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under six. In case of accidental overdose, call a doctor or poison center immediately.

Notes

Periodic blood tests will be done to check your response to this medication. It is important to maintain a well balanced diet to ensure adequate intake of iron, vitamins and minerals. Good sources of iron include meats especially liver, eggs, raisins, figs, broccoli, brussels sprouts, beans, lentils and iron fortified or enriched cereals. Follow any diet recommendations.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light as directed.