Question 1

What is Iron Dextran used for?

Accepted Answer

Iron Dextran is indicated for: Iron deficiency anemia.

Question 2

What routes can Iron Dextran be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: IM, IV.

Question 3

Which species have cited Iron Dextran dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Iron Dextran dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 2 species: Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Iron Dextran a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Iron Dextran is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Iron Dextran?

Accepted Answer

Used for iron deficiency anemia when oral iron insufficient. Anaphylaxis risk (test dose recommended). Pain and staining at IM injection site. Dark discoloration of feces.

Question 6

What are the side effects of Iron Dextran?

Accepted Answer

Used for iron deficiency anemia when oral iron insufficient. Anaphylaxis risk (test dose recommended). Pain and staining at IM injection site. Dark discoloration of feces.

Question 7

How does Iron Dextran work?

Accepted Answer

Provides elemental iron for incorporation into hemoglobin and iron storage proteins. IM depot slowly releases iron over weeks.

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	IM	10–20 mg/kg	once, may repeat in 4 weeks	Moderate	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)	IM	10–20 mg/kg	once, may repeat in 4 weeks	Moderate	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Iron Dextran

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Iron Dextran dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Backed by a published primary source

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

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