Injection, Ferumoxytol, for Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia (Q0138)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Ferumoxytol Injection, Iron Therapy Injection
• Technical/Medical Term: Q0138 Injection, ferumoxytol, 1 mg (non-ESRD use)

Summary

The ferumoxytol injection is a medical treatment used to increase iron levels in patients suffering from iron deficiency anemia. It involves injecting 1 milligram of ferumoxytol directly into a patient's vein to quickly replenish iron stores in the body.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: Iron deficiency anemia, particularly for patients who do not have End-Stage Renal Disease (non-ESRD).
• Goals/Expected Outcomes: To normalize iron levels in the blood, improve energy levels, reduce symptoms of anemia (such as fatigue and weakness), and enhance overall quality of life.

Indications

• Severe iron deficiency anemia that is not corrected by oral iron supplements.
• Symptoms like extreme fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and pallor.
• Patients who cannot tolerate oral iron supplements due to gastrointestinal side effects or poor absorption.

Preparation

• Instructions for Patients: No specific fasting required. Patients may need to inform their doctor of any allergies or past reactions to intravenous iron.
• Diagnostic Tests or Assessments: Blood tests to confirm iron deficiency anemia, including complete blood count (CBC) and serum ferritin levels.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated or lying down comfortably.
2. A healthcare provider cleans the injection site, usually the arm.
3. A needle is inserted into a vein, and the ferumoxytol solution is administered slowly over approximately 15-30 minutes.
4. The injection site is then monitored for any immediate reactions, and the patient may be observed for a short period after the procedure.

• Equipment Used: Sterile needle, syringe, ferumoxytol solution.
• Anesthesia or Sedation: Not required.

Duration

• The injection process takes about 15-30 minutes.
• Monitoring post-injection may extend the total time to an hour.

Setting

• Typically performed in a hospital outpatient department or a specialized infusion clinic.

Personnel

• Administered by a trained nurse or a healthcare provider specializing in intravenous treatments.
• A doctor may be available on-site for immediate assistance in case of adverse reactions.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Mild pain or bruising at the injection site, headache, dizziness, or nausea.
• Rare Risks: Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, hypotension, and severe hypersensitivity reactions. These are usually manageable with prompt medical attention.

Benefits

• Rapid replenishment of iron stores.
• Quick improvement in symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, often within a few days to weeks.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Minimal care needed; patients can typically resume normal activities immediately.
• Recovery Time: Most patients feel better within a few days after the injection.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up to monitor blood iron levels and ensure the treatment's effectiveness.

Alternatives

• Oral Iron Supplements: Slower improvement, may cause gastrointestinal side effects.
• Dietary Changes: Iron-rich foods; less effective for severe deficiency.
• Other Intravenous Iron Preparations: Various formulations with different risk profiles and administration protocols.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Slight discomfort from the needle insertion and feeling the infusion.
• After the Procedure: Most patients feel minimal to no discomfort post-injection. Any reactions are usually mild and manageable. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

Comfort measures include relaxing the patient during administration and monitoring closely for any signs of adverse reactions.