Feraheme: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Introduction Feraheme (ferumoxytol) is a medication used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adults with chronic kidney disease. It is administered intravenously and is classified as an iron replacement therapy. This article will provide an in-depth look at Feraheme, its uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options. Uses Feraheme is primarily used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This condition is common in patients with CKD because the kidneys are responsible for producing erythropoietin, a hormone necessary for red blood cell production. Iron deficiency occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Dosage The recommended dose of Feraheme for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in adults with CKD is 510 mg as a single intravenous injection, administered over at least 15 minutes. The dose may be repeated after 3 to 4 weeks if needed. The total dose should not exceed 1020 mg in a 28-day period. Demographic Feraheme is specifically indicated for use in adults with CKD. CKD affects approximately 37 million people in the United States. The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in CKD patients is estimated to be between 30% to 50%. Feraheme is intended for use in patients who are already receiving or are scheduled to receive an erythropoietin-stimulating agent. Side Effects As with any medication, Feraheme can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea. Other possible side effects include: - Hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis) - Hypotension - Dyspnea - Chest pain - Flushing - Pruritus - Rash - Back pain - Bruising - Hematoma - Peripheral edema - Headache - Muscle spasm - Increased serum ferritin - Hemosiderosis Because of the risk of hypersensitivity reactions, Feraheme should only be administered to patients with CKD in a healthcare setting where medical assistance is readily available. Interactions Feraheme may interact with drugs that can cause hypotension (low blood pressure) or that are metabolized by the cytochrome P450 system. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medication they are taking before receiving Feraheme. Generic Options Feraheme is a brand-name medication with no generic options available at this time. Conclusion Feraheme is a medication used to treat iron deficiency anemia in adults with chronic kidney disease. It is given as a single intravenous injection and is intended for use in patients who are already receiving or are scheduled to receive an erythropoietin-stimulating agent. The most common side effects of Feraheme include nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medication they are taking before receiving Feraheme. Currently, there are no generic options available for Feraheme.