Infed

Generic Name: iron dextran (EYE urn DEX tran)

Brand Names: DexFerrum, Infed

What is Infed (iron dextran)?

Iron dextran is a form of the mineral iron. Iron is important for many functions in the body, especially for the transport of oxygen in the blood.

Iron dextran is used to treat iron deficiencies and iron deficiency anemia.

Iron dextran may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Infed (iron dextran)?

Cases of severe, sometimes fatal, allergic reactions (loss of consciousness, collapse, difficulty breathing, hives, swelling, or convulsions) and severe low blood pressure (hypotension) have been reported with the use of iron dextran. This medication should be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Infed (iron dextran)?

Iron dextran should not be used by people who have an overload of iron in their body or by patients with anemia not caused by iron deficiency.

Before using iron dextran, tell your doctor if you have

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  a history of allergies or asthma;

  
  


• 
  

  heart disease;

  
  


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  rheumatoid arthritis;

  
  


• kidney disease; or


• liver disease.

You may nto be able to use iron dextran or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Iron dextran is the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether dextran will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use iron dextran without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Iron dextran passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not use iron dextran without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.

How should I use Infed (iron dextran)?

Your doctor or other healthcare professional will administer the iron dextran as an injection into the vein (intravenous) or into the muscle (intramuscular).

If you are storing iron dextran at home, store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication out of the reach of children.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a dose or iron dextran.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of an iron dextran injection overdose may include joint pain, chills, dizziness, fever, headache, muscle aches, nausea, and vomiting.

What should I avoid while using Infed (iron dextran)?

There are no restrictions regarding foods, beverages, or activities during treatment with iron dextran unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Infed (iron dextran) side effects

Cases of severe, sometimes fatal, allergic reactions (loss of consciousness, collapse, difficulty breathing, hives, swelling, or convulsions) and severe low blood pressure (hypotension) have been reported with the use of iron dextran. This medication should be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur. Continue using iron dextran and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience:

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  dizziness;

  
  


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  nausea or vomiting;

  
  


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  diarrhea;

  
  


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  fever, sweating, or chills;

  
  


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  soreness, pain, swelling, redness, or other reaction at the injection site;

  
  


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  muscle or joint pain or aches;

  
  


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  metallic taste in the mouth; or

  
  


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  headache.

  
  

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Infed (iron dextran)?

Before using iron dextran, tell your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines that you take, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, so that your treatment can be monitored for interactions.

More Infed resources

• Infed Side Effects (in more detail)
• Infed Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Infed Drug Interactions
• Infed Support Group
• 0 Reviews for Infed - Add your own review/rating

• Infed MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Infed Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Iron Dextran Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Iron Dextran Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)

Compare Infed with other medications

• Anemia Associated with Chronic Renal Failure
• Iron Deficiency Anemia

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has additional information about iron dextran injection written for health professionals that you may read.

See also: Infed side effects (in more detail)