Venofer Injection (Iron sucrose)
Venofer IV (Ferric Hydroxide Sucrose)
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Fact Table
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| Formula | C12H29Fe5Na2O23 |
| License | Approved — used worldwide (>?91 countries) |
| Bioavailability | Intravenous (100% by definition for IV) |
| Legal status | Prescription only (Rx) / requires medical supervision |
| Chemical Name | Polynuclear iron(III)-hydroxide–sucrose complex (iron sucrose / iron saccharate) |
| Elimination half-life | ~6 hours (after IV injection) |
| Dosage (Strength) | 20?mg elemental iron/mL (typically 100?mg per 5?mL ampoule) |
| Pregnancy | Use only if clearly needed — benefits vs risks should be assessed by physician |
| Brands | Venofer (by American Regent / Fresenius in Canada) |
| Protein binding / Distribution | Iron eventually bound to transport/storage proteins (e.g., transferrin, ferritin) after release from complex; volume of distribution ~7–10?L in adults |
| PubChem CID / Database ID | PubChem CID 91663255; DrugBank ID DB09146 |
| ATC code | B03AC — iron, parenteral preparations |
| Routes of administration | Intravenous injection or infusion only (IV iron) |
Venofer (iron sucrose injection) is a form of iron replacement used to treat iron deficiency anemia in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Iron sucrose works by delivering iron into the bloodstream through an intravenous infusion, which allows the body to produce more red blood cells. This medication is classified as an iron supplement and may help restore normal iron levels when the body can't absorb enough iron from food or oral supplements.
Directions
Venofer is administered intravenously, which means a healthcare provider gives it directly into a vein. For adults with chronic kidney disease who aren't on dialysis, the typical dose is 200 mg given slowly over 2 to 5 minutes, repeated 5 times over a 14-day period for a total of 1,000 mg. Adults on hemodialysis usually receive 100 mg during each dialysis session.
For children 2 years and older, the dosage is calculated based on body weight. The medication should be given slowly to reduce the risk of low blood pressure or other reactions.
Ingredients
Iron sucrose is the active ingredient in this drug.
Cautions
- Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications currently being taken
- Venofer can sometimes cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which may be life-threatening. Symptoms can include low blood pressure, fainting, or collapse. Patients are monitored during and after the infusion, and treatment is stopped immediately if any reaction occurs.
- Low blood pressure may also happen during or after treatment, especially if the medication is given too quickly. Patients are watched closely for dizziness, weakness, or lightheadedness after each dose.
- Getting too much iron can cause iron overload, which may lead to organ problems over time. Your doctor will check your blood and iron levels regularly and will not give Venofer if your iron levels are already too high.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Venofer include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, and changes in blood pressure. Some people may also experience abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or mild injection site pain or burning. Fatigue, shortness of breath, or skin itching may occur during or shortly after an infusion, but these effects are usually temporary.
More serious reactions can occur, including low blood pressure, chest pain, swelling, or signs of an allergic response such as rash, wheezing, or swelling of the face and throat. In rare cases, severe hypersensitivity reactions or anaphylaxis have been reported. Rapid infusion or higher doses may increase the risk of these events. Any severe or unusual symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions about Venofer (Iron Sucrose)
What is Venofer used for?
Venofer is an intravenous (IV) iron replacement product used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adults and children over 2 years of age with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It helps replenish low iron levels when oral iron supplements are ineffective or not tolerated.
How does Venofer work in the body?
Venofer delivers iron directly into the bloodstream, where it binds to proteins and is transported to the bone marrow to support the production of healthy red blood cells, helping to improve symptoms like fatigue and weakness caused by anemia.
How is Venofer given?
Venofer is administered by a healthcare provider as an intravenous injection or slow infusion, usually in a clinic or hospital setting. The dose and number of treatments depend on the severity of iron deficiency and the patient’s weight and kidney function.
What are the common side effects of Venofer?
Common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, low blood pressure, leg cramps, and injection site reactions such as pain or swelling. These effects are usually mild and temporary but should be reported if they persist.
Can Venofer cause serious allergic reactions?
Yes, although rare, Venofer can cause serious allergic or hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis. Patients are typically monitored during and after the infusion for signs of reaction such as chest tightness, breathing difficulties, or rash.
Who should not receive Venofer?
Venofer should not be used in individuals with known hypersensitivity to iron sucrose or any component of the formulation. It is also not indicated for patients with anemia that is not due to iron deficiency, such as anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency.
Is Venofer safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Venofer may be used during pregnancy if clearly needed, but it should be prescribed with caution. There is limited data on its use in breastfeeding women, though small amounts of iron may pass into breast milk. A healthcare provider should evaluate the risks and benefits.
How quickly does Venofer improve iron levels?
Improvement in iron levels and anemia symptoms may be seen within a few weeks of starting treatment. Full correction often requires multiple doses over a few weeks, depending on the patient’s iron needs and response to therapy.
Can Venofer interact with other medications?
Because Venofer is given intravenously, it generally has fewer drug interactions compared to oral iron. However, it’s important to inform healthcare providers of all medications and supplements, as excessive iron levels can cause complications.
What precautions should be taken before receiving Venofer?
Before receiving Venofer, patients should inform their healthcare provider about any history of allergies, asthma, low blood pressure, or previous reactions to IV iron. Monitoring during administration is essential to manage any adverse effects promptly.
