Iron sucrose

Iron Sucrose is a form of intravenous iron used to treat iron deficiency anemia, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease. It is a complex of polynuclear iron (III)-hydroxide in sucrose, which allows for a controlled release of iron into the body.

Pharmacology

Iron sucrose is administered intravenously and is used to replenish body iron stores in patients with iron deficiency anemia. It is a complex of iron (III) hydroxide and sucrose, and its structure allows for a controlled release of iron, which can then be used by the body to produce hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Clinical Use

Iron sucrose is primarily used to treat iron deficiency anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease. Iron deficiency anemia is common in these patients, as kidney disease often leads to a decreased production of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells. Iron sucrose can also be used in other conditions where iron deficiency anemia is present, such as in patients with inflammatory bowel disease or heavy uterine bleeding.

Side Effects

Common side effects of iron sucrose include headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, and hypotension. Serious side effects can include allergic reactions, which may present as rash, itching, shortness of breath, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.

Contraindications

Iron sucrose is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients with iron overload syndromes, as additional iron could exacerbate these conditions.

See Also

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Intravenous iron
• Chronic kidney disease
• Erythropoietin
• Inflammatory bowel disease