Understanding Iron Sucrose: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and Precautions

Iron (Fe) plays a significant role maintaining various functions. Iron is the fourth metal invention before Copper, Silver and Zinc. It carries oxygen in blood, responsible for production of hemoglobin; maintain healthy skin, nails and cells. Iron sucrose injectable is a form of intravenous iron replacement therapy used to treat IDA or Iron Deficiency Anemia.

What is iron deficiency anemia?

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common forms of anemia. It is a blood disorder that affects your red blood cells. Symptoms of iron deficiency develop gradually over time. Healthcare professionals address iron-deficiency anemia by diagnosing and treating the underlying cause of the anemia and/or by prescribing iron supplements. Iron deficiency anemia is nothing but insufficient iron in body.

Without enough iron, your body can’t produce enough of a substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen (hemoglobin). Sometimes additional tests or treatments for iron deficiency anemia are necessary, especially if your doctor suspects that you’re bleeding internally.

Iron Deficiency Anemia and Its Symptoms

Iron deficiency goes unnoticed but as the body becomes more deficient in iron, anemia gets worse.

Here are the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency:

• Weakness
• Pale skin
• Extreme fatigue
• Brittle nails
• Cold hands and feet
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fast heartbeat
• Headache/dizziness
• Loss of appetite among infants and children

What is the significance of Iron Sucrose?

Iron sucrose is a form of intravenous iron therapy used to treat iron deficiency anemia, particularly when oral iron supplements are ineffective or cannot be used.

But why do people need intravenous iron therapy?
There are certain situations and medical conditions where people can’t take iron tablets and opt for iron injection. Iron injections are also known as intravenous (IV) iron theory.

Here are some primary reasons:

1. Iron overload condition like hemochromatosis
2. Gastrointestinal intolerance or peptic ulcers and gastritis
3. Malabsorption syndrome
4. Conditions like celiac disease or gastric bypass surgery

What is Iron Sucrose?

Iron sucrose is an intravenous (IV) iron replacement product used to treat iron deficiency anemia. It is composed of iron (III) hydroxide sucrose complex. It allows for the controlled release of iron into the bloodstream.

The primary indication for Iron Sucrose is the treatment of iron deficiency anemia. It is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic kidney diseases, including those undergoing dialysis. Often, oral iron supplements may not be effective or suitable for some patients, making Iron Sucrose a necessary alternative.

How does it work?

Iron Sucrose works by replenishing iron stores in the body. It helps in the production of haemoglobin and red blood cells. The efficacy in restoring iron levels and improving blood parameters makes it a preferred choice for treating iron deficiency anaemia. It is more applicable in complex cases where oral supplements fail to deliver desired results.

Dosage
Iron Sucrose should always be administered by a healthcare professional to ensure safety and efficacy. Self-administration is not recommended due to the potential risks involved.
The medication should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to maintain its effectiveness.

Iron Sucrose and its benefits

1. Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)::

Non-Dialysis CKD:- Iron sucrose is commonly prescribed for patients with CKD not yet requiring dialysis. These patients often have impaired iron absorption and increased iron losses.

Dialysis-Dependent CKD:- Patients undergoing hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, iron sucrose helps maintain adequate iron levels. It helps in crucial situations due to the frequent blood losses associated with dialysis treatments.

Pregnancy::

Pregnancy-Associated Anemia:- IDA or Iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy can lead to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Iron sucrose is preferred in cases where oral iron supplements fail to correct the anemia.

Postpartum Anemia::

Postpartum Hemorrhage:- Women experiencing significant blood loss during childbirth may develop anemia. Iron sucrose can be administered to rapidly replenish iron stores and improve hemoglobin levels.

2. Patients with Malabsorption Syndromes

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)::

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis:- Patients with these conditions often have compromised gastrointestinal function that leads to poor absorption of oral iron. Iron sucrose provides a direct means of correcting iron deficiency in these individuals.

Celiac Disease::

Gluten-Induced Damage:- Celiac disease damages the small intestine, impairing nutrient absorption. Intravenous iron therapy bypasses the gut, effectively treating iron deficiency anemia in these patients.

3. Surgical Patients

Preoperative and Postoperative Management::

Major Surgeries:- Patients scheduled for major surgeries, especially those with a risk of significant blood loss, may receive iron sucrose to optimize their hemoglobin levels before surgery. Postoperatively, it helps in the rapid recovery of iron stores and hemoglobin.

4. Chemotherapy-Induced Anemia

Cancer Patients::

Chemotherapy:- Many chemotherapy regimens cause anemia. Iron sucrose is used in conjunction with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) to manage chemotherapy-induced anemia, improving the quality of life for cancer patients.

Mechanism of Action:- Iron sucrose works by replenishing the body’s iron stores. It consists of iron hydroxide in complex with sucrose, allowing it to be safely and efficiently transported in the bloodstream. Once administered intravenously, it is taken up by the reticuloendothelial system and released for hemoglobin synthesis and other cellular functions.

Side Effects of Iron Sucrose:

While Iron Sucrose is generally safe, it may cause some side effects, including:

• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Taste changes
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Headache
• Cough
• Back pain
• Flu symptoms
• Joint pain
• Dizziness
• Swelling of the arms and legs

In-Depth Precautions and Warnings:

• Allergic reactions: Importance to inform the doctor about any allergies to Iron Sucrose or its components.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: You need to disclose your medical history, especially regarding heart, liver, or kidney diseases, low blood pressure, iron overload disorders, autoimmune disorders, asthma, and eczema.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Caution regarding use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with advice to consult a doctor.
• Impact on alertness: Warning against driving or operating machinery while feeling dizzy.
• Alcohol intake: Recommendation to avoid alcohol consumption due to its effect on iron absorption.
• Safe usage in children: Confirmation of safety for children above two years old, under medical supervision.
• Storage instructions: Not to store Iron Sucrose above 25°C.

Conclusion

Iron sucrose is a vital treatment for various forms of iron deficiency anemia, especially in patients with CKD, malabsorption syndromes, pregnant and postpartum women, surgical patients, chemotherapy recipients, and those with chronic heart failure. Its intravenous administration allows for rapid and effective correction of iron deficiency, significantly improving patient outcomes.

Why choose us?

With an unwavering commitment to empowering individuals to achieve peak well-being, WBCIL presents a hematinic solution that sets new standards in promoting health and vitality. Iron Sucrose, a versatile and powerful compound, is your ultimate choice for optimizing health and addressing iron deficiency. As a time tested hematinic, it plays a pivotal role in supporting red blood cell production, bolstering energy levels, and enhancing overall well-being.