Injectofer injection 100mg Injection

Iron injections contain iron in a form that can be given into a vein, such as iron sucrose. They are used to treat iron deficiency (not having enough iron in the body), which can cause anaemia.

An iron injection may be given when:

• you cannot take iron by mouth, for example because iron tablets make you feel ill
• you have taken iron by mouth and it has not worked

This medicine is only given by a doctor or nurse, in a place where allergic reactions can be treated quickly.

• It is given as a slow injection or a drip into a vein, or through the dialysis machine for people on dialysis.
• Your doctor will do a blood test to work out how much iron you need and how many treatments you will have.
• You will be watched for at least 30 minutes after each dose.
• Tell your doctor if you take iron tablets or syrup, as these may not work if taken at the same time.

Common side effects include:

• a metallic taste, which usually passes quickly
• feeling sick
• low or high blood pressure
• pain, irritation, itching, bruising or brown staining where the injection was given

A flu-like illness with fever and muscle or joint aches can happen a few hours to several days later.

Tell your doctor or nurse straight away if you have:

• dizziness, light-headedness or fainting
• swelling of the face, mouth, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing
• chest pain
• rash, itching or hives

You must not have it if you:

• are allergic to the product, or have had a serious allergic reaction to another iron injection
• have anaemia that is not caused by lack of iron
• have too much iron in your body or a problem using iron

Tell your doctor before treatment if you:

• have had allergies to medicines, or have severe asthma, eczema or other allergies
• have lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• have an infection or liver problems
• are pregnant, may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding (it has not been tested in the first 3 months of pregnancy)

Hospital or clinic staff store, prepare and dispose of this medicine.

Allergic reactions: iron injections can rarely cause severe, life-threatening allergic reactions, which is why they are only given where staff can treat them, with monitoring afterwards.

Driving: you may feel dizzy, confused or light-headed afterwards. If so, do not drive or use machines.

Children: iron sucrose is not recommended for children.

Different iron injections are not interchangeable. Your doctor will choose the product and dose.