IRON SUCROSE
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved Iron sucrose in Nov 14th 2017, to treatment of iron deficiency.
Uses
This medication is indicated for treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in certain patients, primarily those with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks enough iron, which is important for producing red blood cells and oxygen transport.
How is it administered?
Iron sucrose can be administered only as an intravenous injection into a vein by your physician in a hospital setting. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are experienced while you are on the treatment with Iron sucrose are kidney problem, ear damage (inner ear damage), muscle problem, diarrhoea.
Warnings
Iron sucrose is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or other injectable iron preparations. Before receiving this medication, inform your physician if you have a history of conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis and suffer from severe asthma, eczema, and liver problems. Do not receive this drug if you have anemia not caused by iron deficiency, have conditions related to excessive iron levels in your body, or have difficulty using iron.
Precautions
This drug has not been tested in women during the first three months of pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, suspect you might be pregnant, or plan to conceive before taking any medication, including Iron sucrose. It is unsafe to drive while taking Iron sucrose because this medicine might cause confusion and dizziness, so avoid driving and operating machinery during this treatment.
Word of Advice
Stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in iron-containing foods (even if you're receiving iron sucrose). This can help support the effectiveness of the treatment. Regular blood tests and monitoring may be necessary to ensure the safe and effective use of iron sucrose.
References
Vifor France, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2020] [Accessed on 11 August 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5911.pdf American Regent, Inc. US Food & Drug Administration. [Accessed on 11 August 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/021135s017lbl.pdf Venofer (iron sucrose) injection, USP. [Accessed on 11 August 2023], https://www.Iron sucrose.com/patient KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Drugs acting on central nervous system, 2019, 795-799
Frequently Asked Questions
For what condition can iron sucrose be given?
Iron Sucrose is an intravenous iron replacement therapy used to treat iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in individuals who cannot take iron orally or for whom oral iron is ineffective.
Can Iron sucrose affect the absorption of oral iron supplements?
Iron sucrose may reduce the absorption of iron preparations taken by mouth. Inform your physician about all medications and supplements you are taking.
How is iron overload prevented with Iron sucrose?
Regular blood tests are required to monitor iron levels in the blood to prevent iron overload, which can be harmful.
What if I'm allergic to iron sucrose?
If you have known allergies to iron sucrose or any of its components, you should not receive this medication.
Can children receive Iron sucrose?
Iron sucrose can be used for pediatric patients aged 2 years and older with CKD and iron deficiency anemia. However, dosing for children under 2 years old with CKD has not been established.