Iron sucrose (Injection)

Introduction:

Iron Sucrose (EYE-urn SOO-krose)

Treats anemia (lack of iron) in people who have chronic kidney disease.

Brand Name(s):

Venofer

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given during your dialysis treatment.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine, containers, and other supplies. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

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 supplements that have not been recommended by your doctor. Getting too much iron can cause life-threatening illness.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have a family history of iron overload disorder.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to 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.
• Chest pain.
• Extreme drowsiness, coughing up blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
• Fever.
• Lightheadedness or fainting.
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Vomiting, diarrhea, joint pain, muscle pain, trouble breathing.

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

• Leg cramps or muscle pain.
• Mild nausea or stomach pain.
• Mild skin itching.

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