Iron sucrose is an injectable iron supplement. Learn how to use the medication, common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.

What is this medication for?

This medication is also known as “Venofer“ or “Avofer”.

Iron Sucrose is an injection that is used to treat anaemia caused by low iron levels. Anaemia occurs when levels of red blood cells in the body are lower than normal.

It supplies the body with iron to make red blood cells, which are used to transport oxygen around the body. This can help you to feel less tired or breathless and improve your ability to exercise.

Your doctor will perform a blood test to check whether you need Iron sucrose.

How should I take or use this medication?

Iron Sucrose injection is usually given as an infusion into the vein (intravenous).

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• You are taking iron-containing preparations by mouth
• You have a current infection
• You have kidney or liver disease
• You have low phosphate levels

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• This medication may cause changes in blood pressure and you may experience symptoms such as dizziness, headache or face flushing.
  • Check your blood pressure regularly.
  • Get up slowly from a sitting or lying position to minimise dizziness.
  • Inform your doctor if your headache does not go away.
  • Your doctor may prescribe medications to control your blood pressure if needed.
• You may experience nausea after receiving this medication.
  • Eating small frequent meals or sucking hard sugar-free candy may help to relieve this.
• You may experience changes in your taste such as a metallic taste. This does not usually last very long.
• You may experience mild muscle aches and joint pain.
  • Mild pain can be relieved by taking Paracetamol.
  • Inform your doctor if the pain is still there even after taking Paracetamol.
• You may experience pain, bruising, redness, irritation or numbness around the injection site.
  • Do not rub the injection site.
  • Inform your doctor if the redness, pain or itch worsens.
• Healthcare professionals will check your blood pressure, heart rate and for signs of allergic reactions at regular intervals during and after the infusion.
• Your doctor may do a blood test to check your iron level at your next clinic visit. You may need an extra dose of Iron Sucrose if your iron level is still low.
• Skin staining is an uncommon adverse effect that can occur with intravenous infusions if there is clear extravasation into the surrounding tissues, but also in the absence of obvious extravasation. It has been reported with multiple iron preparations and doses. In some cases, skin staining is permanent and may have psychological implications for patients.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Please inform your healthcare professional if you are taking other medications, including supplements, traditional or herbal remedies.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin. 

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on Apr 2025