iron dextran complex

Action and Spectrum

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.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

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

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: 

Contraindication: 

• iron dextran complex is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity or history of anaphylactic reactions to iron dextran complex or any of its components.  

Caution: 

• iron dextran complex should be used with caution in patients with a history of allergic disorders or conditions associated with allergic reactions.  
• iron dextran complex should be used with caution in patients with active infections, acute or chronic inflammatory disorders. 
• iron dextran complex should not be used in patients with iron overload. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

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

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. 

Adminstartion

Administration 

iron dextran complex is administered as a slow intravenous injection or infusion.

Patient Information Leaflet

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.