If you are a person undergoing hemodialysis due to kidney disease, you are probably familiar with the constant feeling of extreme fatigue and tiredness. Sometimes, climbing a flight of stairs or even walking a short distance can feel like a big challenge. The main reason for this is anemia, or as we call it, 'anemia', which is caused by a decrease in iron levels in the body. So today we are going to talk about a special iron treatment that is given during hemodialysis to treat this condition.
Simply put, what is Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate?
This is the medical name for this drug. Simply put, it is a drug that contains iron. It is used to treat iron deficiency anemia in kidney patients, especially those undergoing hemodialysis.
Think about it, the red blood cells in our blood are like trucks that carry oxygen throughout the body. The main one that helps these trucks load oxygen is the mineral called iron. When iron is low, this oxygen transport does not take place properly. That is when we feel tired, weak, and dizzy. When kidney patients undergo hemodialysis, a certain amount of iron can be removed from the body. Also, it is difficult to stimulate the production of red blood cells in diseased kidneys. This medicine called Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate restores the amount of iron needed by the body during hemodialysis and controls this anemia condition.
What should I tell the doctor before using this medicine?
It is very important that you discuss these issues clearly with your medical team before you begin this treatment.
- Are you allergic to this medicine (Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate) or other medicines containing iron?
- Tell us if you have any allergies to any other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
- Be sure to let us know if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
- You should also mention that if you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, it will be easier for the medical team to decide whether this treatment is suitable for you or not.
How is this medicine given?
This is not a medication you can take home. It is given in a hospital or hemodialysis center, under the supervision of your medical team.
Simply put, there is a special fluid that is used during hemodialysis. We call it dialysate . This iron medicine called Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate is mixed with that dialysate fluid and given to the body. So you don't need to have a separate injection. This treatment also happens during dialysis.
Important: This treatment is provided under medical supervision, so do not miss your scheduled dialysis sessions. If for some reason you are unable to attend on your scheduled day, please inform your medical team in advance.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
This is given in a hospital setting so the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you think something has happened, inform the medical team immediately. Alternatively, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . In an emergency, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. But don't worry, most of the time these are not serious. Let's take a look at what these side effects are.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Things to report to your medical team immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Low blood pressure | Dizziness , lightheadedness, blurred vision. |
| Difficulty breathing | Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Tiredness | Feeling generally tired. |
| Headache | Headache . |
| Muscle pain | Body pain or backache. |
| Pain in the limbs | Pain in the hands and feet. |
| Swelling | Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything different, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it.
Are there other things I need to be concerned about while undergoing treatment?
Yes. While you are on this treatment, your medical team will be monitoring your condition closely. In particular, you will need to have regular blood tests to check your iron levels and other important blood tests. This will help them determine whether the dose of medication you are taking is right and whether the treatment is working. Therefore, it is very important that you attend these tests regularly.
Take-Home Message
- Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate is a special iron medication given to treat iron deficiency and anemia in kidney patients undergoing hemodialysis.
- This medicine is given in the hospital or clinic during dialysis, so there is no need to take it home.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor all information about your allergies and pregnancy.
- If you experience any allergic symptoms, low blood pressure, or difficulty breathing, notify the medical team immediately.
- Don't miss scheduled dialysis sessions and blood tests. Talk openly with your doctor about any concerns you may have.
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