Iron dextran is used to treat iron deficiency anaemia (a blood disorder in which the body does not produce enough red blood cells due to lack of iron).
This medicine is used for those who cannot take oral iron supplement, or when your doctor decides that you need iron immediately to build up the levels of iron in your body.
Iron dextran injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein). It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel. It may also be injected intramuscularly (into the muscle).
The doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
After each administration, your doctor or nurse will observe you for at least 30 minutes.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition.
Do not use Iron dextran if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or other iron medications.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- anaemia that is not caused by low level of iron e.g. haemolytic anaemia
- iron overload (too much iron in the blood) or a problem in the way your body uses iron
- bacterial or viral infections
- severe liver disease including cirrhosis, hepatitis
- acute kidney disease
as Iron dextran may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- history of allergic disorders including drug allergies
- severe asthma, eczema, or other allergies
- rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation in joints of fingers, wrist, feet, ankles)
- lupus or systemic lupus erythematosus (autoimmune disease that causes inflammation)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are going for certain laboratory tests, inform your doctor that you are receiving Iron dextan as it may interfere the results of these tests.
For as long as you are being treated with this medicine, your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to Iron dextran regularly.
- The iron level in your blood must need to be measured before you start your treatment to know if this medicine is suited for you to use.
- Routine tests (e.g. complete blood count) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine.
- Regular monitoring of signs and symptoms of allergic reactions during and after treatment may also be needed.
Iron dextran may cause any of the following side effects: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, blurred vision, cramps, numbness, rash, and itching.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, swollen mouth, or eyes as these could be signs of an allergic reaction
- sudden difficulty of breathing
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for high blood pressure
- oral iron supplements
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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