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Brand Names: Venofer

Generic Name: iron sucrose (injection) (Pronunciation: EYE urn SOO krose)

• What is iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?
• What are the possible side effects of iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?
• What is the most important information I should know about iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before I receive iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?
• How should I use iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Venofer)?
• What happens if I overdose (Venofer)?
• What should I avoid while using iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?
• What other drugs will affect iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?

Iron sucrose is a form of the mineral iron. Iron is important for many functions in the body, especially for the transport of oxygen in the blood.

Iron sucrose injection is used to treat iron deficiency anemia in people with kidney disease. It is usually given with another medication to promote the growth of red blood cells (such as Aranesp, Epogen, or Procrit).

This medication is not for treating other forms of anemia not caused by iron deficiency.

Iron sucrose injection may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives, itching; wheezing, difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers right away if you have a serious side effect such as:

• chest pain;
• feeling like you might pass out;
• swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet;
• trouble breathing; or
• dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats, seizure).

Less serious side effects may include:

• muscle cramps;
• weakness, tired feeling;
• dizziness, anxiety, headache;
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
• diarrhea, constipation;
• ear pain;
• sore throat, sinus pain or congestion;
• decreased sense of taste;
• joint pain; or
• pain, swelling, burning, or irritation around the IV needle.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about iron sucrose injection (Venofer)?

You should not receive this medication if you have ever had an allergic reaction to an iron injection, or if you have iron overload (the buildup of excess iron) or hemochromatosis.

Before you receive iron sucrose injection, tell your doctor if you have low blood pressure, hepatitis, or if you have received many blood transfusions in the past.

Iron sucrose injection can make it harder for your body to absorb iron medications you take by mouth. Tell your doctor if you are taking iron supplements or other iron-based oral medications.

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