Class: Supportive Care

Generic Name: Ferumoxytol injection

Trade Name: Feraheme®

How is this drug used? Feraheme is used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adult patients with chronic kidney disease.

What is the mechanism of action? Feraheme restores iron to the body.

How is Feraheme given (administered)? Feraheme is given as an intravenous (IV) injection.

How are patients monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with Feraheme. Patients may undergo blood tests, physical examinations, or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the most common side effects (≥2%) of treatment with Feraheme?

  • · Diarrhea
  • · Nausea
  • · Dizziness
  • · Low blood pressure
  • · Constipation
  • · Peripheral edema (swelling)

What other side effects have been reported in patients treated with Feraheme?

  • · Severe allergic reactions (anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions)
  • · Heart problems
  • · Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • · Unresponsiveness
  • · Angioedema (swelling similar to hives, but beneath the skin)
  • · Headache
  • · Vomiting
  • · Abdominal pain
  • · Chest pain
  • · Cough
  • · Itching
  • · Fever
  • · Back pain
  • · Muscle spasms
  • · Shortness of breath
  • · Rash

This is not a complete list of side effects. Some patients may experience other side effects that are not listed here. Patients may wish to discuss with their physician the other less common side effects of this drug, some of which may be serious.

Some side effects may require medical attention. Other side effects do not require medical attention and may go away during treatment. Patients should check with their physician about any side effects that continue or are bothersome.

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

  • Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

  • Patients should inform their physician of any other medication they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter).
  • Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future.
  • Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions.
  • Patients should inform their physician if they are scheduled to undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Feraheme can affect MRI results.

When should patients notify their physician?

Tell your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms. Some reactions to treatment—such as severe allergic reactions—require immediate medical treatment.

What is a package insert?
A package insert is required by the FDA and contains a summary of the essential scientific information needed for the safe and effective use of the drug for healthcare providers and consumers.  A package insert typically includes information regarding specific indications, administration schedules, dosing, side effects, contraindications, results from some clinical trials, chemical structure, pharmacokinetics and metabolism of the specific drug. By carefully reviewing the package insert, you will get the most complete and current information about how to safely use this drug. If you do not have the package insert for the drug you are using, your pharmacist or physician may be able to provide you with a copy.

Copyright © 2011 CancerConnect Last updated 03/11.

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