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
carboxymaltose 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 or heart failure.
Iron is an important mineral that your body needs to
make enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your
body.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using ferric carboxymaltose 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 as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on
your medical condition, weight, lab tests, and response to
treatment.
See also Warning section.
Pain, irritation, or bruising at the injection site may
occur. Flushing, nausea, or dizziness may also occur. Brown staining of the
skin around the injection site may occur and can be long lasting. If any of
these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
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.
An increase in your blood pressure, sometimes along with
dizziness, nausea, or flushing of the face, may rarely occur right after a
dose of this medication, but these effects usually go away within 30
minutes. Tell your doctor right away if your blood pressure remains high or
if these symptoms last or get worse.
A very serious allergic reaction to this product is
rare. However, 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
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.
See also Warning section.
Before using ferric carboxymaltose, 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, especially of:
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana
(cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana
(cannabis).
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 breastfeeding.
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
include:
- dimercaprol
- other iron-containing products
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 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as complete blood count,
iron/phosphate levels) should be done while you are using this medication.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
It is best to get your vitamins and minerals from the
food you eat. Eat a well-balanced diet. Follow your doctor's advice about
what foods are best for you. Foods rich in iron include red meats
(especially liver), fish, beans, dried fruit, and iron-fortified/enriched
cereals and bread.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic or
doctor's office and will not be stored at home.
