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Ferumoxytol

Generic name: ferumoxytol [ FER-ue-MOX-i-tol ]
Brand name: Feraheme
Dosage form: intravenous solution (30 mg/mL)
Drug class: Iron products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 14, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is ferumoxytol?

Ferumoxytol is an iron replacement product that is used in adults used to treat iron deficiency anemia (IDA), which is low red blood cells caused by a lack of iron in the body.

Ferumoxytol is given to adults with IDA and chronic kidney disease, or to adults with IDA when iron taken by mouth is not effective.

Ferumoxytol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Ferumoxytol side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, itching; wheezing, difficult breathing; a light-headed feeling (like you might pass out);swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Ferumoxytol can cause severe or fatal allergic reactions, even if you have used ferumoxytol before without any reaction. Watch for signs of allergic reaction for at least 30 minutes after your injection.

Ferumoxytol may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of ferumoxytol may include:

Warnings

Ferumoxytol can cause severe or fatal allergic reactions, even if you have used this medicine before without any reaction. Get emergency medical help if you have hives, itching, wheezing, trouble breathing, swelling in your face or throat, or feeling like you might pass out. Watch for signs of allergic reaction for at least 30 minutes after your injection.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use ferumoxytol if you are allergic to it, or if:

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if ferumoxytol will harm an unborn baby, but ferumoxytol may cause severe reactions in the mother that could affect the baby's heartbeat.

Having iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy may increase the risk of premature birth or low birth weight. The benefit of treating this condition with ferumoxytol may outweigh any risks to the baby.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.

How is ferumoxytol given?

Ferumoxytol is injected into a vein by a healthcare provider.

This medicine must be given slowly over 15 minutes.

You will be watched for at least 30 minutes to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

Ferumoxytol is usually given in 2 doses, 3 to 8 days apart.

You may need frequent medical tests, even if you have no symptoms.

Ferumoxytol can affect the results of an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) for up to 3 months after you receive this medicine. Tell any doctor who treats you that you have received a ferumoxytol injection.

Ferumoxytol will not affect other types of X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, or nuclear radiation imaging.

Ferumoxytol dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Iron Deficiency Anemia:

Initial dose: 510 mg, IV, over at least 15 minutes
Second dose: 510 mg, IV, over at least 15 minutes, 3 to 8 days after the initial dose

Comments:
-The patient should be reclined or semi-reclined during administration.
-Evaluate hematologic response at least one month after the second infusion.
-May be readministered for persistent or recurrent iron deficiency anemia.

Use: Iron deficiency anemia in adult patients with chronic kidney disease.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your ferumoxytol injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while receiving ferumoxytol?

Do not take iron supplements or a vitamin/mineral supplement that your doctor has not prescribed or recommended.

What other drugs will affect ferumoxytol?

Ferumoxytol can make it harder for your body to absorb iron medicines you take by mouth.

Other drugs may affect ferumoxytol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.