Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate (Eq. To Iron (Iii)
Indications
Ferric pyrophosphate citrate is an iron replacement product used to replace iron and maintain haemoglobin in adults with chronic kidney disease who are on haemodialysis. People on dialysis lose iron regularly, and keeping iron levels steady helps prevent iron deficiency anaemia and supports the effect of anaemia treatments.
How It Works
The iron in ferric pyrophosphate citrate is in a soluble form that binds directly to transferrin, the protein that carries iron in the blood. This iron is then delivered to the bone marrow, where it is used to make haemoglobin for new red blood cells, without first being stored in the liver.
Dosage and Administration
It is given only in a dialysis unit by a doctor or nurse, either added to the dialysate (the dialysis fluid) at each session or given as a slow intravenous infusion into the dialysis circuit, depending on the product. The dose and schedule are set by the kidney specialist according to iron and haemoglobin blood tests, as prescribed.
Interactions
No major drug interactions are known. It should not be used together with other intravenous iron preparations unless planned by the doctor, to avoid iron overload. Oral iron and other iron products should be reviewed by the dialysis team.
Contraindications
- Allergy to ferric pyrophosphate citrate or any ingredient.
- Iron overload (for example haemochromatosis).
- Anaemia that is not caused by iron deficiency.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include headache, swelling of the hands or feet, muscle cramps, low blood pressure during dialysis, tiredness, fever, pain in the arms or legs, and breathlessness. Problems with the dialysis access site may occur.
Staff will stop treatment and give urgent care if there are signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the face or throat, rash, chest tightness or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Tell staff at once if you feel unwell during dialysis.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is limited information on use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. It should be used only if the doctor decides the benefit outweighs any possible risk.
Precautions and Warnings
Iron levels (serum iron, ferritin, transferrin saturation) and haemoglobin are checked regularly to avoid giving too much iron. Patients are watched for allergic reactions during and after treatment. It should be used with care in people with active infections.
Overdose
Too much iron over time can lead to iron overload, which may damage organs. Treatment is stopped and iron levels are monitored; further management is decided by the doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Iron replacement product (parenteral iron preparation).
Storage
Store as directed on the pack, usually below 30°C. Do not freeze. 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.
All brands of Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate (Eq. To Iron (Iii)