What is Iron Dextran?
- Nutritional Supplement
- Cow,
- Goat,
- Sheep,
- Horse,
- Pig
Active Ingredients: Iron Dextran
Iron Dextran Injection is an iron replacement therapy used to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia in cows, goats, horses, piglets and sheep. As iron-deficiency anemia is common in young animals, this supplement is often given within a few days of birth. An Iron Dextran Injection may also be prescribed to adult animals suffering from anemia.
Iron Dextran Injection is a sterile solution containing ferric hydroxide in complex with a low-molecular-weight dextran fraction, which is equivalent to 100mg elemental iron per ml. Phenol 0.5% has been added as a preservative. This medication is available in 5%, 10%, 20%, and 40% dosages and is packaged in 10ml, 30ml, 50ml, and 100ml vials.
The injection works by supplying the elemental iron needed for the synthesis of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells. Once administered, the iron dextran complex is absorbed by macrophages in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Iron is then released from the complex within the cells and enters the bloodstream where it becomes available for hemoglobin synthesis and other iron-dependent processes.
By raising the iron levels, Iron Dextran Injection not only aids in reversing the signs of anemia but improves the overall growth and health of the animal. The administered iron is stored in the body’s iron reserves, primarily in the liver, and is utilized for new red blood cell production over time, ensuring a sustained response to treatment.
Iron Dextran Injection is designed for veterinary purposes only. This particular formulation was intended to be prescribed by a veterinary doctor or animal care specialist. Unauthorized or improper use can lead to serious health complications.
Basil Hygiecare is a GMP-certified manufacturer of Iron Dextran Injection. We offer a broad range of high-quality veterinary medications available for distribution worldwide. Our facilities in China, India, and the US undergo thorough audits regularly to ensure the quality and consistency of all the veterinary products in our range.
Why are we a trusted Iron Dextran manufacturer?
Iron Dextran Injection is manufactured and globally distributed by Basil Hygiecare, a leading manufacturer of veterinary injections in the pharmaceutical industry. We have been committed to distributing high-quality, GMP-certified veterinary medications for the global market over the past 20 years. As a top Iron Dextran manufacturer, we ensure that all of our 100+ veterinary injections surpass our distributors’ requirements by conducting routine internal and third-party facility audits.
Precautions
Do NOT use Iron Dextran Injection for an animal that:
- has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients.
- is already suffering from iron overload or hemochromatosis.
- has active bacterial or viral infections.
- is in a state of anemia not caused by iron deficiency.
- has a history of severe cardiovascular or respiratory diseases.
Iron Dextran Injection can affect the absorption and efficacy of oral antibiotics like tetracyclines due to iron binding. Concurrent use with ACE inhibitors can also increase the risk of hypotension.
Side effects that might necessitate emergency veterinary care include anaphylaxis, characterized by sudden onset of difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or extremities, and collapse. Signs of iron toxicity, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and shock, also require immediate attention.
What are the most common animals Iron Dextran Injection is used for?
Veterinarians typically give Iron Dextran Injection to the following young animals:
- Piglets: Iron Dextran Injection is commonly used in newborn piglets to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia, which is common in piglets born in confinement operations without access to soil. The drug is usually administered within the first few days of life.
- Calves: The injection is used to prevent or treat anemia, especially in situations where they might not be able to obtain enough iron from their diet. Calves with adequate iron levels are less likely to experience stunted growth and are generally more resistant to disease and infection.
- Lambs: Iron Dextran is administered to lambs raised in intensive farming conditions where the natural intake of iron may be inadequate. Ensuring adequate iron levels helps to prevent anemia and supports overall health.
- Foals: Foals can be at risk of iron deficiency due to rapid growth rates or low iron levels in the mare’s milk, and Iron Dextran is sometimes used as a preventative measure or treatment.
- Puppies: While less common, Iron Dextran may be used in puppies that are diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. This condition can occur due to poor nutrition or internal parasites.
Uses
What is Iron Dextran used for?
It’s used to treat or prevent iron-deficiency anemia. This deficiency can due to inadequate dietary iron intake, chronic blood loss, or increased physiological demands, like those seen in rapidly growing neonates or in animals recovering from parasitic infections.
What animals can be treated with Iron Dextran Injection?
This medicine is recommended for piglets, calves, goats, foals, and lambs.
Can Iron Dextran Injection be used in newborn animals?
Yes, it is frequently used in newborn animals, particularly in piglets, to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
How is an Iron Dextran Injection used?
This medication has been manufactured as a liquid, which is packaged in a vial. It is intended to be administered by intramuscular injection. Iron Dextran Injection is intended for veterinary use only.
Can Iron Dextran Injection cause reactions at the injection site?
Local reactions such as swelling, pain, and tissue discoloration can occur at the injection site. These reactions are generally mild and transient.
How quickly does Iron Dextran Injection take effect?
The effects on increasing red blood cell counts can typically be seen within 1 to 2 weeks after administration, as it takes time for the body to manufacture new red blood cells.
What are the signs of iron deficiency in animals?
Signs include weakness, pale mucous membranes, lethargy, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.
Can Iron Dextran Injection be given with other supplements or medications?
Yes, it can be administered with other supplements or medications as prescribed by a veterinarian. Inform the vet of all current treatments to avoid potential interactions. For example, simultaneous oral iron supplementation may not be necessary and can diminish the effectiveness of the injection.
Is there a risk of overdose with this medication?
Yes, overdose is possible and can result in iron toxicity, which may manifest as hemosiderosis, liver damage, and other systemic effects.
Can Iron Dextran Injection affect diagnostic tests?
Yes, it can interfere with certain diagnostic tests, including those for serum iron and bilirubin. This may lead to erroneous test results if the tests are conducted shortly after administration.
Are there environmental conditions that increase the need for Iron Dextran Injection?
Animals raised in conditions with poor bioavailability of iron in their diet or those raised on substrates like concrete, which prevent natural foraging, may have an increased need for supplemental iron.
How should Iron Dextran Injection be stored?
This drug must be stored at controlled room temperatures, between 15-30°C, away from light and moisture. The vial should remain sealed until use to prevent contamination and ensure sterility. It should not be frozen, and any solution that has crystallized or shows signs of precipitation should be discarded.
Dosage
How much Iron Dextran Injection should be given to foals or calves?
The usual dose for foals or calves is 2-6ml.
What is the recommended dosage of Iron Dextran Injection for piglets?
For piglets, the typical dose of Iron Dextran is usually around 1 to 2ml, given intramuscularly within the first few days after birth.
What should be done if a dose of Iron Dextran Injection is missed?
If a dose is missed, it should be given as soon as possible. However, if it is near the time for the next schedule, skip the missed one and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses.
Is the dosage of Iron Dextran Injection the same for adult animals as it is for neonates?
No, the dose for adult animals is generally higher and must be calculated based on weight and iron status.
How are dosages determined?
Dosages can vary widely depending on the species, age, size of the animal, and the severity of iron deficiency. For newborn animals, a standard dose is provided to prevent iron deficiency anemia; but for adults, the dosage must be calculated based on weight and specific health needs.
Refer to a veterinary doctor or pharmacist for guidelines on dosage.
Side Effects
As with all pharmaceuticals, some unwanted effects can occur from the use of Iron Dextran Injection.
Some common side effects may include but are not limited to:
- transient myositis
- muscle weakness or pain
- injection site reactions
- diarrhea
- fever
Serious side effects may include:
- allergic reaction leading to anaphylaxis
- hypotension, collapse, or even cardiovascular failure
- hemosiderosis or hemochromatosis (iron overload)
If an animal shows signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or severe systemic weakness, it is considered an emergency. The veterinarian may administer antihistamines or corticosteroids as a counteractive measure. In cases where cardiovascular effects are observed, such as collapse or hypotension, the animal should be kept calm and quiet while emergency veterinary care is sought.
For a comprehensive list of all possible side effects of this medication, consult a veterinarian.
