What are the possible side effects of Venofer?

There are several possible side effects of Venofer (iron sucrose), a drug used to treat iron-deficiency anemia in people with chronic kidney disease. These include:

• ear pain
• eye infection ("pink eye")
• gastrointestinal problems (stomach pain, diarrhea, altered sense of taste, nausea, vomiting and indigestion)
• dizziness
• headache
• joint pain
• back pain
• muscle pain or tenderness
• pain or swelling in extremities, fluid retention, or gout
• abnormally high or low blood sugar
• low or high blood pressure
• skin itching
• cough
• sinusitis
• nasal congestion
• upper respiratory infection
• fever
• weakness
• chest pain
• pain or burning at the injection site

There have also been reports of serious allergic reactions to Venofer. Symptoms include shock, dangerously low blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and/or collapse. Allergic reactions are most likely to occur within 30 minutes of receiving Venofer. You should be monitored closely while receiving an infusion of Venofer and for at least half an hour afterwards to make sure you do not have any negative reactions.