| Name | Iron |
| Uses | Essential mineral used to support red blood cell production, oxygen transport, and prevention or treatment of iron deficiency anemia. In wellness settings, it may be used to correct mild deficiencies in patients with documented low iron or ferritin levels. |
| Route Of Administration | Intravenous (IV) |
| Frequency Of Use | Administered only when indicated by lab testing (e.g., low ferritin or iron levels). Frequency varies from a single infusion to a series of treatments spaced 1 to 4 weeks apart, depending on severity of deficiency. |
| Concentration(s) | Varies by formulation; common options include: Iron sucrose (20 mg/mL), Iron dextran (50 mg/mL), and Ferric carboxymaltose (50 mg/mL). |
| Maximum Dosage (Day, Wk) (g/mL)/mL | Maximum dose per infusion: 200 mg for most formulations in wellness settings. Maximum weekly dose: 200 mg. Higher doses increase the risk of infusion reactions and iron overload. |
| Contraindications | Iron overload syndromes (e.g., hemochromatosis). Active systemic infections. Severe hypersensitivity to iron preparations. Known history of anaphylactic reaction to IV iron. Use caution in patients with asthma, inflammatory conditions, or multiple allergies. |
| Possible Side Effects | Nausea, flushing, metallic taste, headache, dizziness, or hypotension during infusion. Injection site irritation. Rare: severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Iron overload with repeated excessive dosing may cause liver injury or oxidative stress. |
| Compatibility With Other Drugs | Iron should not be mixed with other medications in the same IV line. Administer in a dedicated line to avoid compatibility issues. |
| Allergies | True allergy to iron itself is rare, but hypersensitivity reactions to specific iron formulations (dextran, sucrose) are possible. |
| Administration Time | Typical infusion time: 30 to 60 minutes, depending on dose and formulation. Slower infusion reduces risk of adverse effects. |
| IV Dosing | For mild deficiency in wellness patients: 100 mg to 200 mg IV per infusion, given every 1 to 4 weeks, based on lab results and clinical symptoms. |
| IM/Push | IM administration is possible but not recommended due to pain, staining, and variable absorption. IV drip is preferred for controlled delivery. |
| What To Do If Adverse Reaction Occurs | 1. Stop the infusion immediately if a reaction occurs. 2. Assess vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation). 3. If mild symptoms (nausea, flushing) occur, place the patient in a comfortable position and monitor closely. 4. For allergic reactions (rash, itching, shortness of breath), administer antihistamines and consider epinephrine if severe. 5. If hypotension develops, provide a fluid bolus (normal saline) and recheck vitals. 6. If symptoms persist or worsen, arrange for emergency transfer to a higher level of care (call 911 if necessary). |