Sodium Ferric Gluconate Complex (Injection)

Sodium Ferric Gluconate Complex (SOE-dee-um FER-rik Gloo-koe-nate KOM-plex)

Treats iron deficiency in the blood in patients on dialysis who receive erythropoietin.

Brand Name(s):

Ferrlecit
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any iron products, or if you have anemia that is not caused by iron deficiency.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given.
• Your medicine will be given through a tube put in one of your veins, usually in your arm, wrist or hand and sometimes in your chest. This is called intravenous (in-tra-VEEN-us), or IV infusion.
• A nurse or other caregiver trained to give IV drugs will give your treatment.
• You will receive the medicine in an IV infusion during your dialysis sessions. The medicine is given slowly, so the IV will remain in place for about an hour.
• You will receive a test dose of the medicine before your treatment to check for any sensitivity to the medicine.
• If you get your treatments at a clinic or dialysis unit, the staff will keep your medicine there.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, clinic, or home health caregiver for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you keep the medicine at home, store it at room temperature, away from direct light and excess hot or cold temperatures.
• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking a multivitamin or iron supplement.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you have ever been treated for any blood disorder.
• Tell your doctor if you have liver, kidney or heart disease.
• Your doctor will need to regularly check the amount of iron in your blood while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Chest, back or groin pain
• Fast, slow or irregular heartbeat
• Flushing, lightheadedness or tiredness
• Rash or itching
• Redness, pain or swelling where the IV is given
• Stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Unexplained chills, fever or flu-like symptoms
• Wheezing or tightness in the chest

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Blurred vision
• Coughing and sneezing
• Dizziness or headache
• Leg cramps or leg swelling
• Sleepiness or trouble sleeping

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.