Uses
This medication is used to treat "iron-poor" blood (iron deficiency anemia). Low iron levels can occur due to many conditions, including when your body cannot get enough iron from food (because of poor nutrition or poor absorption) or when there is long-term blood loss. Ferric derisomaltose is a form of injectable iron that is used if you cannot take iron by mouth because of side effects or an unsuccessful response to treatment. It is also used by people who have anemia due to long-term kidney disease.
Iron is an important mineral that your body needs to make enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body.
How To Use
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using ferric derisomaltose and with each treatment. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually once as a single dose. It is injected slowly into a vein over at least 20 minutes.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. Your doctor will order lab tests to monitor your response.
Side Effects
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
A rare but very serious, possibly fatal, allergic reaction may occur with this medication. You should be monitored during the dose and for at least 30 minutes afterward. Get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
- loss of consciousness
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using ferric derisomaltose, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other iron injection products; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug are:
- dimercaprol
- other iron-containing products
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood count, iron levels) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments.
It is important to eat a well-balanced diet that has enough iron, vitamins, and minerals. Good sources of iron include meats (especially liver), eggs, raisins, figs, broccoli, brussels sprouts, beans, lentils, and iron-fortified or enriched cereals. Follow any diet recommendations given to you by your doctor.
Missed Dose
Not applicable.
Storage
Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic or doctor's office and will not be stored at home.