Treats iron deficiency anemia (not enough iron in the blood)
Brand Names:
Infed, Dexferrum
Contraindications:
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to iron dextran
Uses:
Injectable
Your doctor will decide how much medicine you should have and when it will be given.
An IM shot is given in your muscle. Iron dextran IM shots are only given in the buttocks.
An IV is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins, usually in your arm, wrist, or hand, and sometimes in the chest.
You will be given a small test dose of this medicine to make sure you are not allergic to it. After the test dose, you will need to stay in the doctor's office or clinic for at least 1 hour. Then the rest of your full dose will be given.
A nurse or other caregiver will give your shots.
If a dose is missed:
This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or clinic where you get your treatments for instructions.
Storage:
If you have your treatments at home, you may need to store your medicine. Keep this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
If you have your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles. Put it where children or pets cannot reach it.
Special precautions:
Before taking, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to any medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure or liver disease. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking, call your doctor
You should not use iron supplement pills while you are being given iron dextran shots unless your doctor tells you to.
Warnings:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before using this medicine.
Before getting this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you have liver disease.
Your doctor will want to check the levels of iron in your blood on a regular schedule while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
Side Effects:
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
Wheezing, or trouble breathing
Chest pain or tightness
Seizures or tremors
Fainting or passing out
Bloody urine
Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea
Weakness or headache
Joint or muscle pain
Changes in the color of skin where the shot is given
