Ferric carboxymaltose is used to treat iron deficiency anaemia (low red blood cell count caused by a lack of iron in your body). Iron is used for the production of red blood cells, which carry and provide oxygen to body tissues.
Ferric carboxymaltose injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein). It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor based on your haemoglobin level in the blood, body weight, and the condition of your kidneys.
After each administration of this medicine, you will be observed for at least 30 minutes by your doctor or nurse.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Ferric carboxymaltose.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- anaemia which is not caused by iron deficiency
- too much iron in the body or problem in the way your body uses iron
- porphyria cutanea tarda (a rare disorder that causes skin abnormalities which usually results in painful skin lesions after sunlight exposure)
as Ferric carboxymaltose may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- medicine allergies
- existing or history of serious asthma, eczema (inflamed or irritated skin) or other allergies
- systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE (an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation)
- rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation in joints of fingers, wrist, feet, ankles)
- short- or long-term infections
- history of stomach disorders related to malabsorption of fat-soluble vitamins or phosphate
- overactive thyroid gland
- vitamin D deficiency
- malnutrition
- kidney disease
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are using Ferric carboxymaltose, you may need to have regular blood tests to check your body’s response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have blood tests.
If you are going for other certain laboratory tests, inform your doctor that you are using this medicine.
Ferric carboxymaltose may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, fever, nausea, vomiting, constipation, altered taste, fatigue, numbness or tingling sensation on the skin, back pain, and pain or discolouration at the injection site.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- fainting, changes in eyesight, severe headache or dizziness
- mood changes, muscle pain or weakness, trouble swallowing
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 oral medicines containing iron or 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.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.