Drugs & Vitamins

InFeD Active Ingredients: Iron Dextran Representative Names: DexFerrum, InFeD What is iron dextran injection? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with iron dextran? What side effects may I notice from receiving iron dextran? What should I watch for while taking iron dextran? Where can I keep my medicine? What is iron dextran injection? (Back to top) IRON DEXTRAN (INFeD®, Dexferrum®)) replaces iron that is essential to the production of healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients through the body. Iron deficiency causes anemia with unusual tiredness or weakness, decreased physical endurance, shortness of breath, decreased resistance to infections, or slowed growth in children. Generic iron dextran injections are not yet available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •blood transfusions •heart disease •hemolytic anemia •iron overload (hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis) •liver disease •peptic ulcer •renal disease •rheumatoid arthritis •systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) •an unusual or allergic reaction to iron, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I use this medicine? (Back to top) Iron dextran is for injection into a vein or muscle. It is usually given by a health-care professional. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) If you are receiving iron dextran injections at home, missed doses should be injected as soon as you remember. If it is close to you next scheduled dose, skipped the missed dose and continue your regular schedule; do not inject double doses. What drug(s) may interact with iron dextran? (Back to top) If you are taking this iron product, you should not take iron in any other medicine or dietary supplement. Other medications that may interact with iron: •chloramphenicol •deferoxamine •dimercaprol •other iron products Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from receiving iron dextran? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •anemia or other blood disorders •blue lips, nails, or palms •chest pain •confusion •difficulty breathing or wheezing •dizziness •hives, itching, or other unusual reaction •fainting spells •fever, chills, or shivering •flushing, sweating, or hot feelings •joint or muscle aches/pains •nausea, vomiting •pale or clammy skin •seizures (convulsions) •significant change in blood pressure •skin rash •stomach pain •swelling or edema of any kind, including the ankles, face, or tongue •tingling or numbness in the hands or feet •unusual tiredness or weakness •weak, fast, or irregular heartbeat Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •change in taste (metallic taste) •diarrhea •headache •mild weakness or tiredness •pain, swelling, redness or irritation at the injection site What should I watch for while taking iron dextran? (Back to top) Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular blood checks if you are receiving iron dextran for a long time. Make sure you have a proper diet. Foods that contain iron include: whole grains/cereals, dried fruits, beans, or peas, leafy green vegetables, and organ meats (liver, kidney). Be sure to include some of these in your diet each day. Alcohol can reduce the amount of iron taken in from your diet; avoid large amounts of alcohol. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Last Updated:01/20/2005 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.