Iron Sucrose
Iron sucrose is an IV source of elemental iron used for confirmed iron deficiency. Veterinary experience is less extensive than with iron dextran.
Group
Intravenous iron supplement
Mechanism of Action
Supplies iron for hemoglobin synthesis and restoration of iron stores.
Dose Rates
Dogs
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron-deficiency anemia | 2–3 mg/kg | IV | Elemental iron. Slow IV over 2–5 minutes; up to five administrations within 14 days, total ≤15 mg/kg/14 days. Interval must be prescribed and prior cumulative dose checked; simple repeat-dose calculation cannot enforce this cap. |
Cats
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron-deficiency anemia | 2–3 mg/kg | IV | Elemental iron. Slow IV over 2–5 minutes; up to five administrations within 14 days, total ≤15 mg/kg/14 days. Interval must be prescribed and prior cumulative dose checked; simple repeat-dose calculation cannot enforce this cap. |
Indications
- Confirmed iron-deficiency anemia
Contraindications
- Iron overload
- Anemia without iron deficiency
- Serious hypersensitivity to the product
- IM or SC administration of the IV formulation
Interactions
- Do not mix with other drugs; only the established saline dilution is described.
Adverse effects
- Hypotension
- Hypersensitivity
- Nausea or vomiting
Toxicity
Overdose can cause iron overload and severe systemic toxicity. Stop the infusion and treat hypersensitivity or hypotension promptly.
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venofer 20 mg elemental iron/mL 100 mg elemental iron as iron sucrose per 5 mL. IV only; not an IM/SC iron preparation. | Injection | 20 mg / mL | IV |
Monitoring and Administration
Monitor CBC and iron status and observe for acute infusion reactions.
Doses and Venofer strength are elemental iron amounts as iron sucrose. Administer slowly IV; do not use IM or SC. Use diluted solutions promptly and do not freeze.
A listed course uses 2–3 mg/kg over 2–5 minutes and up to five administrations in 14 days, with cumulative exposure no more than 15 mg/kg in that period. Exact spacing is not specified; do not convert this to an automatic repeated schedule.