Iron Dextran (Iron Dextran)
Overview of Iron Dextran
Iron Dextran is a complex of ferric hydroxide with dextran. It should be used only in the treatment of proven iron-deficiency anaemia, where oral therapy is ineffective or inappropriate.Iron Dextran is given through deep IM injection. Parenteral iron produces clinical responses similar to that of oral iron, but stores are rapidly repleted after the administration of parenteral iron, which may take months to achieve with oral iron therapy. Anaphylactoid reactions can take place following parenteral administration of it. It was approved by FDA in early 80s.
Indication of Iron Dextran
Iron Dextran is primarily indicated in conditions like Anaemia, Iron deficiency anaemia.
Contraindication of Iron Dextran
Iron Dextran is contraindicated in conditions like Asthma,Liver diseases.
Side Effects of Iron Dextran
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Iron Dextran, which give rise to further complications include Tachycardia, Hypotension, Hypotension, Bradycardia, Thrombophlebitis, Hypertension, Shock, Myocardial infarction, Peripheral vascular flushing, Tachycardia.,Iron Dextran produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Fatal allergic reactions, Decreased BP. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Iron Dextran therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Iron Dextran include Sarcomas.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Iron Dextran are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Weakness, Dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Fever, Myalgia, Abdominal pain, Chills, Urticaria, Pruritus, Flushing, Taste disturbance, Phlebitis, Arthralgia, Syncope, Chest pain, Metallic taste, Paresthesias, Chest tightness, Reaction at injection site, dizziness.
Precautions of Iron Dextran
It should be used with caution in patients with a history of allergic disorders or asthma and in these patients the intramuscular and not the intravenous rout should be employed. Large doses of iron dextran by infusion may lead to serum discololartion. Prior to beginning treatment patients should receive a test dose and should be observed for adverse reactions. Patient should be kept under observation for atleast 1 hour after administration of test dose.