iron sucrose Health Article

Generic name(s):

iron sucrose

Brand name(s):

Venofer

What is the most important information I should know about iron sucrose injection?

Cases of severe, sometimes fatal, allergic reactions (loss of consciousness, collapse, difficulty breathing or convulsions) and severe low blood pressure (hypotension) have been reported with the use of iron sucrose. This medication should be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

What is iron sucrose injection?

Iron sucrose injection is a form of the mineral iron. Iron is important for many functions in the body, especially for the transport of oxygen in the blood.

Iron sucrose injection is used to treat iron deficiencies and iron deficiency anemia in patients with kidney disease.

Iron sucrose injection may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not use iron sucrose injection?

Iron sucrose should not be used by people who have an overload of iron in their body or by patients with anemia not caused by iron deficiency. Iron sucrose injection is the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely that iron sucrose injection will harm an unborn baby. Do not use iron sucrose injection without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is unknown whether iron sucrose injection passes into breast milk. Do not use iron sucrose injection without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.

How should I use iron sucrose injection?

Only a qualified doctor or other healthcare professional should administer iron sucrose injection. Iron sucrose injection is not intended for administration by the patient.

Your doctor or other healthcare professional will administer the iron sucrose injection intravenously (directly into the dialysis line).

Iron sucrose injection may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using iron sucrose injection if you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Store iron sucrose injection at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep this medication out of the reach of children. An accidental overdose of iron by a child can be fatal.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Doses are given one to three times a week. Contact your doctor if you miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of an iron sucrose injection overdose include dizziness; headache; nausea; vomiting; joint aches; abdominal and muscle pain; a burning, prickling or tingling feeling; and swelling.

What should I avoid while using iron sucrose injection?

There are no restrictions regarding foods, beverages, or activities during treatment with iron sucrose injection unless your doctor directs otherwise.

What are the possible side effects of iron sucrose injection?

Cases of severe, sometimes fatal, allergic reactions (loss of consciousness, collapse, difficulty breathing or convulsions) and severe low blood pressure (hypotension) have been reported with the use of iron sucrose. This medication should be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur. Continue using iron sucrose injection and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience:

• dizziness or fainting;

• nausea or vomiting;

• diarrhea;

• cramps (especially leg cramps); or

• headache.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur with iron sucrose injection. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect iron sucrose injection?

Iron sucrose injection may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using iron sucrose injection if you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Before receiving iron sucrose injection, tell your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines that you take so that your therapy can be monitored for interactions.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about iron sucrose injection written for health professionals that you may read.