Iron dextran is used to treat iron deficiencies and iron deficiency anemia (low red blood cells).

Iron dextran may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not receive iron dextran if you are allergic to it, or if you have a type of anemia that is not caused by iron deficiency.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• heart disease;
• liver disease;
• kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
• rheumatoid arthritis;
• bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia;
• stomach bleeding;
• asthma or allergies;
• if you are allergic to any medication; or
• if you use a beta-blocker medicine (atenolol, carvedilol, metoprolol, nebivolol, propranolol, sotalol, and others).

Do not use if you are pregnant. Stop using the medicine and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Iron dextran can cause injury to the unborn baby if you take the medicine during your second or third trimester.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.

Use Dexferrum (Injectable) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

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

Iron dextran can cause severe and sometimes fatal allergic reactions or severely low blood pressure. Call your doctor or seek medical help right away if you feel light-headed or if you suddenly have trouble breathing.

Also all your doctor at once if you have:

• fast or slow heartbeats. chest pain, wheezing, trouble breathing;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• blue-colored lips or fingernails;
• red or pink urine;
• weak or shallow breathing (breathing may stop);
• seizure (convulsions);
• swelling, warmth, redness, or itching where the medicine was injected; or
• delayed effect (1-2 days after injection)--fever, chills, dizziness, headache, general ill feeling, nausea and vomiting, joint or muscle pain, back pain.

Common side effects may include:

• mild itching or rash;
• body aches, numbness or tingly feeling;
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea;
• mild dizziness or weakness, low fever; or
• brown discoloration of your skin.

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.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.