What is Iron Dextran?
Iron dextran can be used to treat iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of iron dextran.
Side effects of Iron Dextran
If you experience any of the following signs of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or facial or throat swelling. Seek medical help immediately!
Iron dextran may cause severe and even fatal allergies or low blood pressure. If you are feeling lightheaded or suddenly having trouble breathing, call your doctor immediately.
If you are suffering from:
- Fast or slow heartbeats. Chest pain, difficulty breathing;
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling feeling);
- Blue-coloured lips and fingernails
- Red or pink urine
- Breathing that is shallow or weak (or even stops altogether);
- Seizure (convulsions);
- The injection site may be swollen, warm, red, or itchy.
- The delayed effect can be felt 1-2 days after the injection. This includes fever, chills, and dizziness. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, muscle or joint pain, and back pain.
Iron dextran side effects may include:
- Mild itching or skin rash
- Body aches, numbness, and tingling sensations;
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea;
- Low fever, mild dizziness, and weakness;
- Brown discoloration on your skin
There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding side effects, reach out to your physician. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Iron dextran should not be used if your anemia is not due to iron deficiency. Iron dextran may cause severe, sometimes fatal allergic reactions and low blood pressure. If you suddenly feel like you are going to pass out or feel light-headed, tell your carer immediately.
Before you take this drug
If you are allergic or have anemia not due to iron deficiency, you should not take iron dextran.
Contact your physician if any of the following apply to you:
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease (or dialysis if you have it);
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Hemophilia is characterized by bleeding or blood clotting disorders.
- Stomach bleeding;
- Allergies or asthma
- If you have an allergy to any medication,
- If you are taking beta blockers (atenolol, carvedilol, metoprolol, nebivolol, propranolol, sotalol, and others),
You should not take this medicine if you're pregnant. If you are pregnant, stop using the medication and immediately tell your doctor. Iron dextran may cause harm to your unborn child if taken during the second or third trimester. Iron dextran can cause problems with breastfeeding. Whenever there is any concern over risks, you should speak to your physician.
How to take Iron Dextran?
Read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions. Follow the directions on the label. An injection of iron dextran into the vein is administered. Your healthcare provider may give you your first dose and teach you how to use the medication properly. The iron dextran should be injected slowly. Injecting the medicine too quickly may cause serious side effects.
Your first dose may be administered in a hospital setting or clinic to treat any serious side effects. Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Only prepare an injection when you're ready to administer it. If the color of your medicine has changed or if it contains particles, do not use it. For new medication, call your pharmacist.
Inform your doctor of any changes to your height or weight. These measurements are used to determine the dose of iron dextran. You may require frequent medical tests. Tests can be used to determine the effectiveness of a medicine, even if there are no symptoms. It can interfere with certain medical tests. Inform any doctor that you see about your use of iron dextran.
Each vial is only for one-time use. After one use, throw it out, even if the medicine is still inside. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you miss a dosage, call your doctor to get instructions.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms include muscle pain and nausea.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Iron dextran may be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal supplements. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
