Iron Dextran (EYE-urn DEX-tran)

Treats anemia (lack of iron).

Brand Name(s):

Infed

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein or as a shot into a muscle (usually in the buttock).
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• You may be given a small test dose of this medicine to make sure you are not allergic to it. The rest of your dose will be given at least one hour after the test dose.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use iron supplement pills while you are being given iron dextran shots unless your doctor tells you to.
• Some medicines can affect how iron dextran works. Tell your doctor if you use a blood pressure medicine called an ACE inhibitor.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, heart disease, a kidney infection, rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, or asthma.
• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.
• This medicine could raise your iron levels too high. Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Bloody urine
• Chest pain, trouble breathing
• Fainting
• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat
• Joint or muscle pain
• Moderate to high fever, chills, dizziness, headache, nausea, or vomiting
• Seizures or tremors

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Pain, redness, itching, burning, or swelling where the needle is placed or the shot is given

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088