Iron Sucrose (Venofer) 100–200mg IV

How it works

It supplies an iron-sucrose complex that is taken up by the reticuloendothelial system and incorporated into transferrin and ferritin, restoring iron available for haemoglobin synthesis.

Prescribing in practice

• Give only where staff and equipment to treat anaphylaxis are immediately available, and observe the patient during and after administration for hypersensitivity.
• Administer by slow intravenous injection or infusion, as rapid administration can cause hypotension.
• Avoid in the first trimester of pregnancy and use later in pregnancy only when clearly necessary.

Monitoring

Monitor haemoglobin and iron indices to assess response and avoid iron overload, especially with repeated dialysis-unit dosing.

Counselling the patient

• Tell staff at once about any rash, wheeze, dizziness or facial swelling during the injection.
• Skin can stain if the drug leaks at the injection site, so report pain or burning there.
• Several doses may be required to fully replenish your iron stores.

Evidence & guidelines

Renal anaemia guidance supports intravenous iron such as iron sucrose as first-line iron replacement in haemodialysis-dependent CKD.