Iron Dextran

Information about Iron Dextran

Iron dextran uses

Iron Dextran is used in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia and anemia due to chronic kidney disease.

How iron dextran works

Iron Dextran is an anti-anemic medication. It replenishes the iron stores in your body. Iron is vital for the formation of new red blood cells and hemoglobin, a substance that gives these cells the ability to transport oxygen.

Common side effects of iron dextran

Vomiting, Nausea, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Abdominal pain, Chills, High blood pressure, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Skin discoloration, Chest pain, Back pain, Hypersensitivity, Breathlessness, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Itching, High white blood cell count, Swelling of lymph nodes, Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), Cardiac arrest, Sterile abscess, Injection site soreness, Injection site pain, Swelling, Inflammation, Febrile response, Joint pain, Convulsion, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Loss of consciousness, Taste change, Disorientation, Respiratory arrest, Blood in urine, Urticaria, Purpura, Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin), Injection site phlebitis

Available Medicine for Iron Dextran

    Expert advice for Iron Dextran

    • Consult your doctor if you have liver, heart, kidney diseases or undergoing dialysis, bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia or stomach bleeding or asthma or allergies, rheumatoid arthritis or any infections.
    • Do not use iron dextran in children < 4 months old.
    • You will be regularly monitored for lab tests, such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood iron levels, total iron binding capacity (TIBC) levels, or percent saturation of transferrin levels, while you use iron dextran.
    • Do not drive or use any machinery after taking iron dextran as it may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
    • Tell your doctor if you are or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
    • Do not take if allergic to iron dextran or any of its ingredients.
    • Do not take if having anaemia not associated with iron deficiency.

    Frequently asked questions for Iron Dextran

    Iron Dextran

    Q. How long can I take Iron Dextran for?
    Iron Dextran is used to regulate hemoglobin levels in the human body. It is usually given to patients who have iron deficient anemia or iron deficiency. The doctor may suggest using this medicine till the hemoglobin level becomes normal. Do consult your doctor to understand the usage of this medicine properly.
    Q. How is Iron Dextran administered?
    Iron Dextran should be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional or a doctor only and should not be self-administered. The dose will depend on the condition you are being treated for and will be decided by your doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get maximum benefit from Iron Dextran.
    Q. Can I take Iron Dextran for anemia and iron deficiency?
    Yes, Iron Dextran can be taken for iron deficiency anemia and iron deficiency. However, its use for other types of anemia is not recommended. Take Iron Dextran in the dose and duration advised by your doctor.
    Show More
    Q. What types of food items should I take other than Iron Dextran?
    You can consume food items that are rich in iron content (like red meat, pork, poultry and seafood). Other food items which contain rich iron content include beans, dark green leafy vegetables (like spinach), peas, dried fruit (raisins and apricots), iron-fortified cereals, breads and pastas. You can also try iron supplements (tablets or capsules) available at pharmacy stores for iron deficient anemia. Always consult your doctor regarding its proper use.
    Q. What can I take for Iron Dextran deficiency anemia?
    You can take iron supplement (ferrous fumarate/ferrous sulfate/ferrous gluconate) tablets to treat iron deficiency anemia. In case you are not sure, consult your doctor.
    Q. Can I take Iron Dextran with vitamin C/ Vitamin D/ multivitamin/ folic acid?
    Yes, iron and vitamin C/ Vitamin D/ multivitamin/ folic acid can be taken together. Taking vitamin C and iron together helps the body absorb the iron. However, it would be best to consult your doctor before using Iron Dextran with other medicines.
    Q. Can I take Iron Dextran with zinc?
    No, Iron Dextran may alter the absorption of zinc, if given together. Therefore, it is advisable not to take Iron Dextran with zinc.
    Q. Can I take Iron Dextran with Paracetamol?
    Yes, you can take Paracetamol with iron. However, it is advised to always consult your doctor before taking any medicine to avoid any complexity.
    Q. Does Iron Dextran increase weight?
    Yes, Iron Dextran can increase weight. Exercise regularly and take a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables and fat-free products. You should consult your doctor if you need any further help to manage your weight.
    Q. Does Iron Dextran cause constipation or acne?
    Yes, Iron Dextran may cause constipation or acne. Constipation and acne are among some of the most common side effects of Iron Dextran. Please consult your doctor if any of these side effects bother you.

    Content on this page was last updated on 29 October, 2024, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)