Ferric carboxymaltose injection is used to treat iron-deficiency anemia (a lower than normal number of red blood cells due to too little iron) in adults who cannot tolerate or who could not successfully be treated with iron supplements taken by mouth. This medication is also used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adults with chronic kidney disease (damage to the kidneys which may worsen over time and may cause the kidneys to stop working) who are not on dialysis. Ferric carboxymaltose injection is in a class of medications called iron replacement products. It works by replenishing iron stores so that the body can make more red blood cells.
Ferric carboxymaltose injection comes as a solution (liquid) to inject intravenously (into a vein) by a doctor or nurse in a medical office or hospital outpatient clinic. It is usually given as a total of 2 doses, spaced at least 7 days apart. If your iron levels become low after you finish your treatment, your doctor may prescribe this medication again.
Ferric carboxymaltose injection may cause severe or life-threatening reactions during and shortly after you receive the medication. Your doctor will watch you carefully while you receive each dose of ferric carboxymaltose injection and for at least 30 minutes afterwards. Your doctor will also check your blood pressure frequently during this time. Tell your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms during or after your injection: shortness of breath; wheezing; difficulty swallowing or breathing; hoarseness; swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes; hives; rash; itching; fainting; lightheadedness; dizziness; flushing of the face; nausea; cold, clammy skin; rapid, weak pulse; chest pain; or loss of consciousness. If you experience a severe reaction, your doctor will stop your infusion immediately and provide emergency medical treatment.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before receiving ferric carboxymaltose injection,
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
If you miss an appointment to receive ferric carboxymaltose injection, call your doctor as soon as possible.
Ferric carboxymaltose injection may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Ferric carboxymaltose injection may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online ( Web Site) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at Web Site. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.
Symptoms of overdose may include:
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your body's response to ferric carboxymaltose injection.
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are receiving ferric carboxymaltose injection.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.