Indications
Iron sucrose is an injectable iron used to treat iron deficiency anaemia when iron tablets do not work, cannot be tolerated, or when iron needs to be replaced quickly. It is widely used in people with chronic kidney disease, including those on dialysis, and in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy when a doctor decides it is needed.
How It Works
Iron is needed to make haemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carries oxygen. Iron sucrose delivers iron straight into the blood, where it is taken up and stored by the body and used to make new red blood cells.
Dosage and Administration
It is given only by a doctor or nurse, in a hospital or clinic, as a slow injection into a vein or as a drip. The total amount needed is calculated from body weight and haemoglobin level and is usually split into several doses given over days or weeks, as prescribed. You will be watched for at least 30 minutes after each dose.
Interactions
Do not take iron tablets or syrup at the same time, as the injected iron reduces their absorption. Iron by mouth is usually started at least 5 days after the last injection, if the doctor advises it.
Contraindications
- Allergy to iron sucrose or any other injectable iron.
- Anaemia that is not caused by iron deficiency.
- Iron overload (for example haemochromatosis) or problems using iron in the body.
- The first three months of pregnancy.
Side Effects
Common: a metallic or altered taste, headache, nausea, dizziness, changes in blood pressure, and pain or burning at the injection site. If the injection leaks under the skin, it can cause brown staining that may last a long time.
Get urgent medical help, or tell the nurse at once, for:
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness or swelling of the face, lips or throat.
- Feeling faint, a sudden drop in blood pressure or a very fast heartbeat.
- A widespread itchy rash or hives during or after the injection.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Not used in the first three months of pregnancy. In the second and third trimesters it is given only if the doctor decides the benefit is greater than the risk. Very little passes into breast milk, and it is unlikely to harm a breastfed baby.
Precautions and Warnings
- Given only where staff and equipment to treat allergic reactions are available.
- Risk of allergic reaction is higher in people with asthma, eczema or other allergies; tell the doctor.
- Tell the doctor about liver disease or any current infection.
- Iron levels are checked to avoid giving too much.
Overdose
Too much iron can build up in the body (iron overload). Overdose is managed by the doctor, who may give treatment to remove excess iron.
Therapeutic Class
Parenteral (injectable) iron preparation.
Storage
Store below 25°C, protected from light; do not freeze. Usually kept and prepared by the hospital or clinic. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.