Injectafer: Uses, Dosage , Side effects and Interactions

Overview

What is Injectafer?

Ferric carboxy maltose is marketed frequently under the brand name Injectafer. It is an iron preparation for intravenous administration that puts iron right into the bloodstream. The pharmaceutical ferric carboxy maltose injection is a member of the group of drugs known as iron replacement products.¹Overview| Researched based study from Medlineplus.gov

Even though iron supplements are frequently prescribed to treat iron deficiency anemia, some individuals may find tolerating oral iron challenging or need a quicker rise in iron levels. In such circumstances, intravenous iron therapy becomes useful, and Injectafer has established itself as a well-liked and reliable solution.

This article examines Injectafer’s mode of action, applications, dose, administration, storage, adverse reactions, contraindications, dangers, safety measures, and medication interactions.

How does it work?

• Ferric carboxy maltose, the active component, releases iron from the complex upon administration and attaches to a protein that promotes iron transport throughout the body.²Overview| Researched based study from Pdr.net
• By replenishing iron stores and promoting red blood cell synthesis, this mechanism helps to treat the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anemia.
• Injectafer’s maximum concentration is between 15 minutes and 1.21 hours after delivery.

Uses

What is Injectafer used for?

The following people are treated for iron deficient anemia with Injectafer:

• Adults or young children older than one year who cannot tolerate oral iron supplements or who did not receive adequate relief from oral iron.
• Adults with kidney disorders who do not require dialysis.³Uses| Researched based study from Daiichisankyo.us
• Adults who are deficient in iron and have heart failure.

Dosage

Dosage recommendations of Injectafer

The 50 mg/ml strength of the Injectafer is available.

The Injectafer dosage is determined by the patient’s weight and hemoglobin levels.

For patients weighing 50 kg or less

• Two intravenous doses of 750 mg, separated by at least seven days, for a total of 1,500 mg iron each course.

For individuals who weigh 50 kg or more

• 1,500 mg of iron total cumulatively taken in two doses of 750 mg each, spaced by at least seven days, makes up one course.
• Adult patients may undergo an intravenous single-dose therapy regimen ranging from 15 mg/kg to 1,000 mg.⁴Dosage| Researched based study from Hhs.iowa.gov

In the case of people who are under 50 kg

• 15 mg/kg in two doses, given at least seven days apart.

For those experiencing cardiac failure

• Two doses might need to be separated by six weeks.

How to use it?

Injectafer is given intravenously by a health care professional either as:

• Slow push injection.
• Or a slow infusion.

Slow intravenous push

• Injectafer 500 or 750 mg should be injected slowly into the vein at about 100 mg (2 mL) per minute.

Slow infusion

• At least 15 minutes should pass between each 750 mg dose and the next, and at least 30 minutes should pass between each 1500 mg dose.⁴Dosage| Researched based study from Hhs.iowa.gov
• Sticking to the suggested infusion rates and overseeing the patient while it’s being administered to look out for any unfavorable responses is crucial.

Storage

Storage of Injectafer

• The ideal storage temperature for Injectafer is between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F).⁵Storage| Researched based study from Injectaferhcp.com
• Avoid freezing it.
• It should be kept out of children’s reach and protected from light.

Side effects

Injectafer side effects

Although Injectafer is mostly well accepted, it might have adverse effects like any medicine. Typical negative impacts may include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Dizziness ⁶Side effects| Researched based study from Fda.gov
• Loss of appetite
• Bone pain
• Fracture
• Muscle weakness
• Flushing of the face
• High blood pressure
• Injection site reactions – swelling, skin rashes, or pain.

Usually moderate, these symptoms go away on their own. More severe side effects can happen less frequently. Among them could be allergic reactions like:

• Difficulty breathing.⁷Side effects| Researched based study from Mayoclinic.org
• Hives
• Facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling.

Seeking emergency medical assistance is advised if any of these symptoms appear.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity – Injectafer is not recommended for those allergic to ferric carboxy maltose or its other components.⁸Contraindications| Researched based study from Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov

Precautions

Risks & Precautions

Although Injectafer is typically safe to use, there are some potential hazards as follows:

• Severe hypersensitivity reactions – anaphylaxis or other serious, fatal hypersensitive reactions are possible with any intravenous iron product. When administering Injectafer, healthcare professionals should be prepared to address such crises.⁸Precautions| Researched based study from Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov
• Iron overdose – healthcare professionals should evaluate the patient’s overall health and iron status before injecting Injectafer to ensure the treatment’s advantages exceed its hazards.
• High blood pressure – In some cases, it could raise blood pressure. After each Injectafer injection, closely watch patients for any indications of hypertension.
• Low levels of phosphates in blood – following the administration of Injectafer, hypophosphatemia has been noted in some cases.⁹Interactions| Researched based study from Dailymed.nlm.nih.gov Before receiving an injection of Injectafer, patients with low blood phosphate levels should have them rectified.
• Pregnancy – It is unknown if using Injectafer while pregnant is safe. However, the risk of hypersensitivity reactions could adversely affect the developing fetus.
• Breastfeeding moms – should discuss the use of Injectafer with their doctor before beginning and watch for signs of diarrhea or constipation in their young children. If they notice any problems with their digestion, they should see a doctor immediately.

Interactions

Drug Interactions

Healthcare professionals should evaluate the patient’s medication history before injecting Injectafer to spot any possible drug interactions.

• Extreme caution is required when giving Injectafer simultaneously with other medications that could trigger hypersensitivity reactions or interact with iron metabolism.
• Before starting Injectafer, patients are urged to review their prescriptions with their doctors, including any prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and nutritional supplements.
• This is because not all of the medications mentioned above are known to interact with this medication.

Bottom line

The Bottom Line

Adult patients with iron deficiency anemia should consider injecting Injectafer (ferric carboxy maltose), as it provides a quick and efficient way to replace iron stores and raise hemoglobin levels. However, as with any medical procedure, it is crucial to consider Injectafer’s side effects, indications, dangers, precautions, and drug interactions. Healthcare professionals can treat iron deficiency anemia patients safely and effectively in this way. Always consult a healthcare expert for individualized advice and direction on using Injectafer or other medicine.