IRON

An intravenous infusion of chelated iron can quickly increase the body’s iron levels, more immediate than by oral supplements or dietary changes. The physical benefits of an iron infusion include increased energy and easier breathing.

While all human cells contain iron, it is mostly found in red blood cells. The health benefits of proper iron levels include eliminating fatigue and many of its sources. Iron also plays a vital role in immune system function, treating anemia, boosting hemoglobin, and much more.

Iron overdoses are rare and most of the time, if there is more iron in the body than necessary, the body will save it for future use. Supplemental iron is prescribed in cases of anemia and severe iron deficiency. Intravenous B vitamins are usually co-prescribed.

Anemia results when hemoglobin is below normal ranges. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, dizziness, fast heart rate, and malaise, or an overall feeling of sickness and weakness. Vegetarianism is often a cause of iron-deficiency anemia, especially in blood types O and B.

The chief function of iron is to form hemoglobin, a red protein whose main purpose is to transport oxygen in the blood. Additional hemoglobin may be needed because humans lose blood in many ways, especially from injuries. Women lose blood every month during their menstrual cycles, which is one of the most common reasons women may be more likely to suffer from anemia. Chronic parasites infection is also a major cause of anemia, as they tend to consume blood on a continuous basis.

Iron may help manage unexplained fatigue, which can affect both men and women. Even in someone who isn’t anemic, low iron can still reduce energy levels. This is especially common in women during their reproductive years.

Ferric carboxymaltose is a macro-molecular ferric hydroxide carbohydrate complex, which allows for controlled delivery of iron within macrophage and monocyte cells of the immune response system. This enhances iron-binding proteins ferritin and transferrin, with minimal risk of release of large amounts of ionic iron in the body, reducing risk of over-exposure to iron.

Contraindications: The use of Ferric carboxymaltose is contraindicated in cases of: Hypersensitivity to ferric carboxymaltose complex or solution or to any of its excipients, anemia not attributed to iron deficiency, e.g. other microcytic anemia; evidence of iron overload or disturbances in utilization of iron.

Adverse Reactions: The most commonly reported is nausea, followed by injection/infusion site reactions, hypophosphataemia, headache, flushing, dizziness, or hypertension. Injection/infusion site reactions are uncommon or rare.

Interactions: Oral iron, if required, should not be started for at least 5 days after the last administration of IV iron.