Uses of Ferric Carboxymaltose

Ferric Carboxymaltose is used to treat iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) in adults and in children (above 14 years of age), who are unable to take iron supplements orally, have an intolerance to oral iron supplements, need a rapid iron supplement in the body, have non-dialysis dependent chronic kidney disease. 

Therapeutic Category

Ferric Carboxymaltose: Iron replacement agents

How Ferric Carboxymaltose works

Ferric Carboxymaltose contains iron (III) hydroxide complexed with a carbohydrate polymer called carboxymaltose, which is capable of releasing iron. The iron released from the complex helps in the synthesis of haemoglobin and increases red blood cell count. As a result, it treats iron deficiency anaemia. 

Common side effects of Ferric Carboxymaltose

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Flushing
• High blood pressure
• Nausea
• Injection/infusion site reactions 

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• In case of accidental overdose or poisoning
• Symptoms of serious allergic reaction or kounis syndrome (such as rashes, itching, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, throat or body causing difficulty in breathing or wheezing and chest pain)
• Severe or life-threatening allergic reactions called anaphylactic reactions which can be associated with heart, circulation problems (low blood pressure) and loss of consciousness
• Sign of a decrease in blood phosphorus causing softening of bones (osteomalacia) symptoms include worsening of tiredness, muscle or bone pain (pain in arms or legs, joints or back) and may lead to fractures
• Signs of high blood pressure (such as facial flushing, dizziness or nausea)
• Skin irritation and brownish discolouration of the skin at the injected site

Health Tips for Ferric Carboxymaltose

• Ferric Carboxymaltose should be used with caution in pregnant women only if considered clearly necessary. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or planning to have a baby. Consult your doctor before receiving  Ferric Carboxymaltose
• If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor for advice before receiving Ferric Carboxymaltose. It is unlikely that Ferric Carboxymaltose represents a risk to the breast-fed child
• Ferric Carboxymaltose is unlikely to impair the ability to drive or operate machines