WARNING

Infed should be used under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. Here are some general guidelines on how Infed is typically used:

• Administration: Infed is administered intravenously (IV), which means it is injected directly into a vein or given as an infusion over a specific period of time. It should be administered by a trained healthcare professional in a clinical setting, such as a hospital or clinic.
• Dosage: The dosage of Infed will vary depending on the severity of iron deficiency anemia and the individual patient’s needs. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you. It is important to follow their instructions and not to exceed the recommended dosage.
• Schedule: The frequency of Infed administration will also be determined by your healthcare provider. In some cases, a single infusion may be sufficient, while in others, multiple infusions may be required. The schedule will be based on your iron deficiency status and response to treatment.
• Monitoring: During Infed treatment, your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and response to therapy. They may order blood tests to check your hemoglobin and iron levels periodically. This helps determine if the treatment is effective and if any adjustments are needed.
• Precautions: It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, medications you are taking, or any allergies you may have, as these factors can affect the use of Infed. Also, let them know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Side Effects: Infed can cause side effects, although they are usually rare. Common side effects may include flushing, headache, dizziness, nausea, and injection site reactions. Serious side effects such as an allergic reaction or low blood pressure can occur but are less common. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Remember, the above information is a general guideline. It is important to consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your individual condition and needs. They will provide you with comprehensive guidance on how to use Infed safely and effectively.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Infed is a prescription medication used to treat iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce an adequate amount of red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Infed is an intravenous (IV) iron preparation that helps replenish iron levels in the body.

Infed is typically prescribed when oral iron supplements are ineffective or cannot be tolerated by the patient. This may occur when the body has difficulty absorbing iron from the digestive system or when oral iron causes gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.

How should this medicine be used?

Infed (iron dextran) should be used according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. It is typically administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Here are some general guidelines for the use of Infed:

• Administration: Infed is administered through an injection into a vein (intravenous). It should not be given by any other route, such as intramuscularly or subcutaneously.
• Healthcare professional supervision: Infed should only be administered by a healthcare professional who is experienced in the administration of intravenous iron preparations. They will ensure proper dosage, administration technique, and monitoring.
• Dosage and duration: The dosage and duration of Infed treatment will depend on your individual condition, such as the severity of iron deficiency anemia and your response to treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage and treatment schedule for you.
• Pre-medication and test dose: In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend pre-medication with antihistamines or a test dose of Infed to assess your tolerance and minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Follow their instructions regarding pre-medication and test dose administration.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely monitor your response to Infed treatment through regular blood tests to assess your iron levels. They will determine the frequency of monitoring based on your specific situation.
• Adherence to treatment: It is important to complete the full course of Infed treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better before completing the treatment. Stopping the treatment prematurely may result in unresolved iron deficiency anemia.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and do not make any changes to the dosage or schedule without consulting them. They will provide you with personalized guidance based on your specific needs and condition.

Other uses for this medicine

Infed is the brand name for iron dextran, a medication used to treat iron deficiency anemia. While its primary use is for correcting iron deficiency, there are some other potential uses for Infed, although they may vary depending on the country and healthcare regulations. Some potential alternative uses for Infed include:

• Iron deficiency in pregnancy: Infed may be prescribed to pregnant women with iron deficiency anemia to help improve their iron levels and prevent complications.
• Chronic kidney disease: Infed might be used in patients with chronic kidney disease who have iron deficiency anemia, as impaired kidney function can lead to decreased iron absorption and utilization.
• Inflammatory bowel disease: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, may require Infed if they develop iron deficiency anemia due to chronic intestinal bleeding or poor iron absorption.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Infed (iron dextran), there are several special precautions you should follow:

• Administration by healthcare professional: Infed is typically administered through an injection into a vein (intravenous). It should only be given by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Do not attempt to self-administer or administer it at home without proper medical supervision.
• Allergic reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of allergies, especially to iron or other medications. Allergic reactions to Infed can be serious and potentially life-threatening. Be vigilant for symptoms such as hives, itching, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
• Medical history and current medications: Provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive medical history, including any current medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking. Certain conditions or medications may interact with Infed or increase the risk of adverse effects. It’s essential to disclose this information to ensure the safe use of Infed.
• Iron overload or conditions affecting iron metabolism: Infed should not be used in individuals with iron overload disorders, such as hemochromatosis, or other conditions affecting iron metabolism, unless there is a specific medical indication. These conditions may increase the risk of complications associated with iron supplementation.
• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may perform regular blood tests to monitor your iron levels and determine the appropriate dosage and duration of Infed treatment. Follow their instructions for follow-up appointments and laboratory tests.
• Potential side effects: Infed may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, or a metallic taste in the mouth. If you experience any unusual or persistent side effects, notify your healthcare provider.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult with them if you have any concerns or questions regarding the use of Infed. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific medical condition and needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, your doctor may provide specific recommendations tailored to your needs. In general, it is advisable to follow a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods to support the efficacy of Infed. Foods high in iron include red meat, poultry, seafood, beans, lentils, leafy green vegetables, fortified cereals, and dried fruits. However, individual dietary instructions may vary depending on your specific medical condition and the guidance of your healthcare provider. It’s best to consult with them to determine the most appropriate dietary guidelines for your situation.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of a medication such as Infed, it’s generally recommended to take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, you should skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. It’s important not to take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Infed is a brand name for iron dextran, which is an iron replacement medication. Iron dextran is typically used to treat iron-deficiency anemia. It’s administered intravenously (IV) by a healthcare professional. Common side effects of Infed can include:

• Injection site reactions: Pain, swelling, redness, or irritation at the site of injection.
• Staining of the skin: The medication can cause a darkening or staining of the skin at the injection site. This discoloration is usually temporary and fades over time.
• Flu-like symptoms: These may include fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, or headache.
• Gastrointestinal effects: Infed can cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in some individuals.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to Infed. Signs of an allergic reaction may include hives, itching, rash, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Allergic reactions should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.

It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for more specific information about Infed, including its potential side effects and any other concerns you may have.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Infed should be stored at room temperature, between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F).
• Keep Infed in its original packaging or container to protect it from light.
• Store Infed out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not freeze Infed or expose it to extreme temperatures.

Disposal:

• Follow local regulations for the proper disposal of Infed. You can consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on local disposal guidelines.
• Do not dispose of Infed in household trash or flush it down the toilet or sink unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Consider returning any unused or expired Infed to a designated take-back program or a pharmacy that offers medication disposal services.
• If no specific disposal instructions are available, you can mix the remaining Infed with an undesirable substance, such as coffee grounds or cat litter, and place it in a sealed bag before disposing of it in the trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, contact your local emergency services or poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of an overdose may include severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, or fainting.
• Provide them with as much information as possible, including the name of the medication, dosage, and the amount ingested if known.

What other information should I know?

• Adverse Reactions: Infed may cause adverse reactions in some individuals. These can include allergic reactions, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, dizziness, or lightheadedness. If you or someone else experiences severe or persistent side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
• Administration: Infed is administered through intravenous (IV) injection by healthcare professionals. It should never be taken orally or injected in any other way.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies, asthma, kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or other medical conditions before using Infed. Additionally, disclose all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The use of Infed during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare professional to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

Remember, the information provided here is not exhaustive. Always consult your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local poison control center for immediate and personalized advice in case of emergencies or specific concerns related to Infed.