Class: Supportive Care

Generic Name: Iron dextran injection, USP

Trade Name: INFeD®

How is this drug used? INFeD is used to treat iron deficiency that cannot be well managed with oral iron therapy.

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

How is INFeD given (administered)? INFeD is given either intravenously (IV; into a vein) or as an injection into a muscle. Patients often receive a test dose prior to their first full dose in order to check for allergic reactions.

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

What are possible side effects of treatment with INFeD?

  • · Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
  • · Cardiovascular side effects: chest pain or tightness, shock, cardiac arrest, changes in blood pressure, changes in heart rhythm, flushing.
  • · Skin side effects: hives, itching, rash, purple or bluish areas on the skin (purpura, cyanosis)
  • · Gastrointestinal side effects: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
  • · Blood-related side effects: increase in the number of white blood cells, swollen lymph nodes.
  • · Musculoskeletal side effects: joint pain or inflammation, muscle pain, backache, injection site reaction.
  • · Neurologic side effects: convulsions, seizures, fainting, weakness, unresponsiveness, abnormal skin sensations, fever, chills, dizziness, disorientation, numbness, unconsciousness.

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) as they may interact with treatment.
  • 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, including allergies, liver disease, kidney disease, and heart disease.

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.

Important Limitations of Use

The information provided above on the drug you have selected is provided for your information only and is not a substitute for consultation with an appropriate medical doctor.  We are providing this information solely as a courtesy and, as such, it is in no way a recommendation as to the safety, efficacy or appropriateness of any particular drug, regimen, dosing schedule for any particular cancer, condition or patient nor is it in any way to be considered medical advice. Patients should discuss the appropriateness of a particular drug or chemotherapy regimen with their physician.

As with any printed reference, the use of particular drugs, regimens and drug dosages may become out-of-date over time, since new information may have been published and become generally accepted after the latest update to this printed information.  Please keep in mind that health care professionals are fully responsible for practicing within current standards, avoiding use of outdated regimens, employing good clinical judgment in selecting drugs and/or regimens, in calculating doses for individual patients, and verifying all dosage calculations.

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