What is Ferumoxytol?
Ferumoxytol, an iron replacement product for adults, is used to treat iron-deficiency anemia. This is a low number of red cells due to a lack of iron in the body. Adults with IDA, chronic renal disease, or IDA who cannot take iron by mouth are given Ferumoxytol. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of ferumoxytol.
Side effects of Ferumoxytol
If you experience any of the following: hives, itching, wheezing, difficulty breathing, feeling light-headed (as if you could pass out), swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat, Ferumoxytol may cause serious or fatal allergies, even if it has been used before without a reaction. After your injection, watch for any signs of an allergic reaction.
Ferumoxytol can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Severe or persistent nausea or diarrhea.
- A seizure;
- Kidney problems: swelling, decreased urination, fatigue, or feeling short of breath.
- Heart problems: chest pain, rapid or pounding pulse, rapid weight increase, feeling out of breath
Side effects of ferumoxytol include:
- Headache, dizziness;
- Diarrhea, constipation;
- Nausea;
- You may experience swelling of your hands, feet, arms, or legs.
Similar/related drugs
ferrous sulfate, FeroSul, Venofer, Procrit, Aranesp, Poetin alfa, and Infed
Warnings
Ferumoxytol may cause severe or even fatal allergic reactions. This is true even if this medication has been used before without causing any adverse reactions. If you experience hives, itching, wheezing, or have difficulty breathing, or if your face or throat swells, you should seek emergency medical attention. Monitor for signs of an allergic reaction at least 30 minutes following your injection.
Before you take this drug
If you suffer from an allergy to Ferumoxytol or its components, take caution in taking its use.
Are You Suffering an Allergic Reaction After Receiving Iron Injections in your Veins
Inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- Iron overload syndrome
- Any drug allergies?
- low blood pressure.
Inform your doctor that you are or plan to be pregnant. Although it is unknown if ferumoxytol can harm an unborn child, it may cause severe reactions within the mother, which could affect the heartbeat of the baby. Iron deficiency or anemia may cause premature births or low birthweights. Ferumoxytol is a drug that can be used to treat anemia. The benefits of this treatment may outweigh the risks for the baby. Ask your doctor if you can safely breastfeed while taking this medication.
How to take Ferumoxytol?
A healthcare provider injects ferumoxytol into a vein. The medicine should be taken slowly, over a period of 15 minutes. The doctor will monitor you for at least 30 minutes to ensure that you are not allergic. Ferumoxytol usually comes in two doses that are 3–8 days apart. Even if you don't have any symptoms, you may still need to undergo medical tests. Ferumoxytol may affect the results of MRIs (magnetic-resonance imaging) up to three months after receiving this medicine. Inform any doctor that treats you about the ferumoxytol you received. Ferumoxytol does not interfere with other types of imaging, such as CT scans or ultrasounds.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for iron deficiency anemia:
Initial dose: 510mg IV over 15 minutes
Second dose: 510mg IV over 15 minutes at least, 3–8 days after the initial dose.
Comments:
The patient must be reclining or semi-reclining during the administration.
-Evaluate the hematologic reaction at least a month after the second infusion.
may be administered again for iron deficiency, whether recurrent or persistent.
Use: iron deficiency in adults with chronic kidney disease.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you cannot attend your scheduled appointment, call your physician immediately for instructions on what steps are needed to be taken instead.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect poison, or seek immediate medical care.
What should be avoided?
Avoid taking iron or vitamin or mineral supplements that have not been prescribed by your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
Ferumoxytol may make it difficult for you to absorb iron-containing medicines that you take orally. Other drugs can affect ferumoxytol. These include vitamins and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.
