Treats anemia (lack of iron) in people who are on kidney dialysis
Brand Names:
Venofer
Contraindications:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to Venofer®, if you have anemia that is not caused by a lack of iron, or if you have a hereditary iron disorder called hemochromatosis (or "iron overload")
Uses:
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given during your dialysis treatment.
A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
Never share your medicine with anyone.
If a dose is missed:
Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.
Storage:
If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.
Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.
Keep all medicine away from children.
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
Do not use iron supplements that have not been recommended by your doctor. Getting too much iron can cause life-threatening illness.
Warnings:
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a family history of iron overload disorder.
Side Effects:
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
