Iron Sucrose

Generic Details

Generic Name

iron-sucrose

Other Names

  • iron sucrose
  • ferric hydroxide sucrose complex

Drug Class

  • Iron Supplement

Chemical Formula

Fe5HO23 - C12H22Fe5O23

Molecular Weight

34,963 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Iron-sucrose acts by releasing iron which is absorbed and incorporated into hemoglobin in red blood cells.

Indications

  • Treatment of iron deficiency anemia in patients who are intolerant to oral iron or have a clinical need for a rapid iron infusion.

Common Dosage Forms

  • Injection

Typical Dosage

  • 100 to 200 mg (dose depending on the patient's weight and hemoglobin level) administered intravenously over 1 to 2 hours.

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosage should be based on body weight and the severity of anemia.

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dosage adjustments may be required based on renal function.

Side Effects

  • Common side effects include hypotension, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache. Rarely, anaphylactic reactions may occur.

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to iron-sucrose, iron overload, and hemolytic anemia.

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus.

Lactation Safety

  • Not recommended during lactation as it may pass into breast milk.

Drug Interactions

  • May interact with oral iron supplements, tetracyclines, and penicillamine.

Overdose Symptoms

  • Symptoms of iron overdose may include gastrointestinal distress, metabolic acidosis, and hepatotoxicity.

Antidote for Overdose

  • Deferoxamine is the antidote for iron overdose.

Storage Conditions

  • Store at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Protect from light.

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Iron-sucrose is administered intravenously, bypassing the GI tract for direct absorption.
  • Distribution: Iron is distributed in the plasma bound to transferrin.
  • Metabolism: Iron is metabolized in the reticuloendothelial cells.
  • Excretion: Elimination of iron is via the reticuloendothelial system and feces.

Precautions

  • Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity during administration. Periodically monitor hemoglobin levels and iron parameters.

Warnings

  • Iron-sucrose should only be administered in a setting where resuscitation equipment and trained personnel are readily available.

Others

  • Iron-sucrose is typically administered as a series of injections over several weeks until the patient's iron levels are restored.