Iron dextran

Iron dextran is used to treat iron deficiencies and iron deficiency anemia (low red blood cells).

Iron dextran may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

You should not use iron dextran if you have a type of anemia that is not caused by iron deficiency.

Iron dextran can cause severe and sometimes fatal allergic reactions or severely low blood pressure. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel light-headed (like you might pass out), or if you suddenly have trouble breathing.

You should not receive iron dextran if you are allergic to it, or if you have a type of anemia that is not caused by iron deficiency.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• heart disease;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
• rheumatoid arthritis;
• bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia;
• stomach bleeding;
• asthma or allergies;
• if you are allergic to any medication; or
• if you use a beta-blocker medicine (atenolol, carvedilol, metoprolol, nebivolol, propranolol, sotalol, and others).

Do not use if you are pregnant. Stop using the medicine and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Iron dextran can cause injury to the unborn baby if you take the medicine during your second or third trimester.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using iron dextran. Ask your doctor about any risk.

Get emergency medical help if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Iron dextran can cause serious and sometimes deadly allergic reactions or very low blood pressure. Call your doctor or get medical help immediately if you feel light-headed or suddenly have trouble breathing.

Also contact your doctor right away if you experience:

• fast or slow heartbeats, chest pain, wheezing, trouble breathing;
• feeling light-headed, as if you might faint;
• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling);
• blue lips or fingernails;
• red or pink urine;
• weak or shallow breathing (breathing may stop);
• seizures (convulsions);
• swelling, warmth, redness, or itching at the injection site; or
• delayed effects (1-2 days after injection) such as fever, chills, dizziness, headache, feeling generally unwell, nausea and vomiting, joint or muscle pain, back pain.

Common side effects of iron dextran may include:

• mild itching or rash;
• body aches, numbness or tingling;
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea;
• mild dizziness or weakness, low fever; or
• brown discoloration of your skin.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Iron dextran is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give your first dose and may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.

Iron dextran must be given slowly. Injecting this medicine too quickly can cause serious side effects.

You may receive your first dose in a hospital or clinic setting to quickly treat any serious side effects.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand all instructions.

Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Do not use if the medicine has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

Tell your doctor if you have any changes in height or weight. Iron dextran doses are based on these measures.

You may need frequent medical tests. Even if you have no symptoms, tests can help your doctor determine if this medicine is effective.

This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using iron dextran.

Each vial (bottle) is for one use only. Throw it away after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Signs of an overdose may include joint pain, chills, dizziness, fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting.

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any limits on food, drinks, or activities.

Other drugs may affect iron dextran, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.