2025 Guidelines for the Evaluation and Management of Adults With Congenital Heart Disease
December 19, 2025
Brand Name :
INFeD, Dexferrum
Synonyms :
iron dextran complex
Class :
Iron Products
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Injectable solution
50mg/ml
Administer dose of 25 to 100 mg intravenously
Not more than 100 mg/day
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Injectable solution
50mg (Fe)/ml
For >15 kg:
0.0442(Desired Hemoglobin - Observed Hemoglobin) x Lean body weight(kg) + (0.26 × Lean body weight)
For 5 to 15 kg:
Not used in starting four months of life
Dose = 0.0442(Desired Hemoglobin - Observed Hemoglobin) x body weight(kg) + (0.26 × body weight)
Refer to adult dosing
It may diminish the effect when combined with manganese by inhibiting the gastrointestinal absorption
Actions and Spectrum
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when there is a lack of iron in the body, leading to decreased production of red blood cells and impaired oxygen transport. iron dextran complex provides a concentrated dose of iron directly into the bloodstream, allowing for rapid replenishment of iron stores.
Frequency not defined
Anaphylaxis
Chest pain
Respiratory arrest
Hematuria
Leukocytosis
Hypotensive shock
Seizure
Dyspnea
1-10%
Nausea
Urticaria
Brown discoloration of skin
Arthralgia
Pruritus
Soreness
Inflammation
Rash
Vomiting
Arthritis
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Black Box Warning
The black box warning for iron dextran complex focuses on the risk of anaphylactic reactions, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can manifest as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, itching, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. Patients who have a history of medication allergies or who have multiple drug sensitivities may be more susceptible to drug reactions of the anaphylactic type.
Contraindication/Caution:
Contraindication:
Caution:
Pregnancy consideration:
Pregnancy category: N/A
Lactation: traces of unmetabolized iron dextran are excreted in human milk
Pregnancy Categories:
Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.
Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.
Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.
Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category.
Pharmacology
iron dextran complex acts as a source of elemental iron, which is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin, myoglobin, and various enzymes involved in oxygen transport and cellular metabolism.
Pharmacodynamics
Iron which is an essential component of hemoglobin, iron dextran complex supports the maturation and proliferation of erythroid precursors in the bone marrow.
By replenishing iron stores and increasing hemoglobin levels, the drug improves the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
The drug is directly delivered into the bloodstream via intravenous route ensuring immediate availability of the iron component.
Distribution
iron dextran complex is distributed throughout the body, including the bone marrow.
Metabolism
iron dextran complex itself does not undergo significant metabolism.
Elimination and excretion
It is excreted through minimal through urine and feces.
Administration
iron dextran complex is administered as a slow intravenous injection or infusion.
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: iron dextran complex
Why do we use iron dextran complex?
iron dextran complex is primarily used for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.
iron dextran complex may be used to address iron deficiency and support red blood cell production.
iron dextran complex may be used to treat iron deficiency and prevent complications in pregnant women.