Iron dextran (injection)

Patients who suffer from certain types of anemia or who have a low level of iron in their blood may receive an iron dextran injection. This medication is usually given to people who cannot absorb oral iron pills appropriately or whose iron levels are dangerously low. The injection is given intravenously.

Side Effects/Warnings

This medication should only be administered in a hospital or doctor’s office that is equipped to respond to allergic reactions. It should also be given only to patients who cannot take iron any other way or who have dangerously low iron levels. This medication can cause a severe allergic reaction that includes convulsions, fainting, difficulty breathing, hives and swelling.