Intravenous iron infusion
[4] Ferric hydroxide was identified as toxic because it was found to release free bioactive iron when injected intravenously, increasing risk of infection.
Testing concluded iron saccharide to be safer and more effective for anaemic patients seeking a IV infusion.
[4] Three patients suffered anaphylactic reactions such as drop in blood pressure, discolouration of the skin, shortness of breath and fainting.
[4] The use of low molecule weight iron dextran was common place for renal dialysis patients and due to its success usage increased progressively through to 1997.
[6] Ferric gluconate was determined to be a safer alternative to iron dextran products with lower rates of serious adverse effects.
[6] Iron dextran attributed to at least thirty-one deaths across the United States and Europe, ferric gluconate had no casualty rates.
Progressively over time intravenous iron infusions have begun to play a significantly role in the treatment of anaemia specifically in the fields of hematology and oncology.
[7] The adverse effects associated with oral iron supplements prohibit patients from completing the full course of medication.
[9] Intravenous iron infusions are prescribed when gastrointestinal absorption is poor or when an urgent increase in haemoglobin levels is required for severely anaemic patients, such as women in their second and third trimester of pregnancy.
[10] Intravenous iron infusions are a form of treatment for pregnant women that ensures a fast and early recovery.
The degree and severity of anaemia, tolerability to previous treatment and history of allergy must all be considered before intravenous iron is administered.
IV iron is found to be highly effective for patients with chronic kidney disease when combined with erythropoiesis stimulating agents.
[4] Patients temperature, blood pressure, pulse and breathing rate are monitored constantly for signs of immediate hypersensitivity during and thirty minutes after treatment.
[19] Monofer is prescribed to patients who require an urgent and rapid build-up of iron stores and haemoglobin in the blood.
Patients using Venofer for iron deficiency and anaemia in chronic kidney disease have reported experiences of hypotension, shock and loss of consciousness.
[8] Medicines are prescribed to patients who have experienced hypersensitive reactions to IV iron infusions in the past to prevent this from reoccurring.
Skin staining and discolouration can occur at the site of infusion if the iron and saline solution leaks outside the vein into the surrounding tissue.
Patients are at risk of hypothermia since large amounts of cold fluid are being infused directly into the bloodstream at a rapid rate.
IV iron infusions can trigger dyspnoea, wheezing and chest pain in patients who suffer from asthma.
