Iron-dextran
[CAS# 9004-66-4]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Blood system medication >> Anti-anemia drug
• Name: Iron-dextran
• Synonyms: Ferric hydroxide dextran complex
• Molecular Formula: FeH₂O₄S
• Molecular Weight: 153.92
• CAS Registry Number: 9004-66-4
• EC Number: 233-336-3
• SMILES: OS(=O)(=O)O.[Fe]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS08 Danger
• Risk Statements: H317-H350
• Safety Statements: P202-P261-P272-P280-P302+P352-P308+P313

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	1B	H350
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	2	H351
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Respiratory sensitization	Resp. Sens.	1	H334
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1B	H317

Discovery and Applications

Iron-dextran, a complex of iron and the polysaccharide dextran, was discovered in the mid-20th century as a solution to the challenge of delivering iron in a bioavailable form for medical purposes. The formulation was developed through the combination of iron salts with dextran, a biocompatible polymer derived from glucose. This innovation allowed for the stable encapsulation of iron, preventing its precipitation and enhancing its absorption in the body. The discovery of iron-dextran marked a significant advancement in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, providing a safer and more effective alternative to traditional iron supplements.

Iron-dextran is widely used as an intravenous therapy for iron deficiency anemia when oral iron supplements are ineffective or poorly tolerated. The formulation allows for the rapid delivery of iron directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and avoiding issues of poor absorption or gastrointestinal side effects. This is particularly important in cases of severe anemia or in patients with malabsorption disorders.

Iron-dextran injections are often administered to pregnant women at risk of developing iron deficiency anemia. During pregnancy, the body's iron requirements increase significantly to support fetal growth and development. Iron-dextran provides a reliable means of replenishing iron stores and preventing maternal and fetal complications associated with anemia, such as preterm birth and low birth weight.

Patients with chronic diseases such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often experience iron deficiency anemia as a complication of their condition. Iron-dextran therapy is used to manage anemia in these patients, providing a steady supply of iron to support red blood cell production and improve symptoms such as fatigue and weakness.

Iron-dextran injections are also utilized in veterinary medicine for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in animals. Livestock, particularly piglets and calves, are susceptible to iron deficiency due to inadequate dietary intake or poor absorption. Iron-dextran injections help to address this deficiency and promote healthy growth and development in young animals.

Iron-dextran is used in research and laboratory settings for experimental studies involving iron metabolism, anemia, and related conditions. Its well-established safety profile and consistent iron content make it a valuable tool for investigating the effects of iron supplementation and the mechanisms underlying iron deficiency and anemia.

Patients undergoing hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis are at risk of iron deficiency due to blood loss during dialysis sessions and impaired erythropoiesis. Iron-dextran injections are commonly prescribed to these patients to maintain adequate iron levels and prevent or treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease and dialysis treatment.

References

2024. Influence of an iron dextran injection in various diseases on hematological blood parameters, including serum ferritin, neonatal dairy calves. BMC Veterinary Research, 20(1).
DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04229-y

2024. Infusion Reactions With Alternative Therapies During the National Shortage of Iron Dextran. European Journal of Haematology, 113(4).
DOI: 10.1111/ejh.14322

2024. Imaging arterial and venous vessels using Iron Dextran enhanced multi‐echo 3D gradient echo MRI at 7T. NMR in Biomedicine, 37(8).
DOI: 10.1002/nbm.5251