Individuals who have an insufficient amount of iron in their bodies may develop iron deficiency anemia. This is a common type of anemia, in which blood lacks an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells, explains MayoClinic.com. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which supplies the body with oxygen. Without sufficient iron, the body can not produce hemoglobin. Iron deficiency is treated with iron supplements. In certain individuals, prescription iron supplementation is required.
Iron Sucrose
Iron sucrose is a prescription medication available as an injection and used to treat iron deficiency anemia in patients with chronic renal failure. Patients who receive hemodialysis and are treated with a medication called erythropoietin may use this medication. Side effects that may occur with this drug include low blood pressure, accumulation of fluid in the legs and feet, headache, nausea and muscle cramps. Iron sucrose is not indicated in children, but may be used in pregnancy if necessary, according to the "Drug Information Handbook." The prescribing physician should monitor the patient periodically to ensure safety and avoid toxicity.
Iron Dextran
Iron dextran complex is a prescription medication available as an intravenous or intramuscular injection. It is composed of iron hydroxide and dextran, which is a carbohydrate. The drug is indicated for the treatment of microcytic hypochromic anemia resulting from iron deficiency in individuals who are not adequately treated with oral iron supplements. This drug must not be given before the first four months of life. "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach" states that the medication has a black box warning regarding the risk of anaphylaxis, or a severe allergic reaction. The patient requires a test dose given gradually over at least five minutes before starting drug therapy. Common side effects include flushing, headache dizziness, nausea, vomiting, discoloration of the urine and staining of the skin at the intramuscular injection site.
Ferric Gluconate
Ferric gluconate is a prescription medication indicated for patients with iron deficiency anemia who are on hemodialysis along with erythropoietin therapy. Anaphylaxis is less common with ferric gluconate and a test dose is not required. Safety and efficacy in children younger than 6 years of age has not been tested and use is not recommended, according to the "Drug Information Handbook." Side effects for this medication include cramps, nausea, vomiting, flushing, and low pressure. Local reactions that may occur include rash, pain, itchiness or swelling at the site of the injection. The patient should have his iron status monitored monthly while using this medication.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Iron Deficiency Anemia
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Josep T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
Member Comments