What is ferumoxsil?
Ferumoxsil is in a group of drugs called imaging contrast agents. Ferumoxsil contains iron, a substance that is magnetic. Contrast agents are used to allow certain internal organs to be seen clearly on an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
Ferumoxsil is used to help diagnose certain disorders of the stomach or intestines.
Ferumoxsil may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about ferumoxsil?
Do not receive this medication if you are allergic to ferumoxsil, or if you have a blocked or perforated intestine.
Before receiving this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, if you have an iron overload disorder (such as chronic hemolytic anemia) or if you have received frequent blood transfusions. Also tell your doctor if you have a history of hiatal hernia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inflammatory bowel disease, or if you have recently had any nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
After receiving ferumoxsil, call your doctor at once if you have severe stomach pain or cramping, or a skin rash with bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, and muscle weakness.
Less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as mild stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, or numbness and tingling of your mouth.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving ferumoxsil?
Do not receive this medication if you are allergic to ferumoxsil, or if you have a blocked or perforated intestine.
Before receiving this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
an iron overload disorder such as chronic hemolytic anemia;
a history of frequent blood transfusions;
a history of hiatal hernia;
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD);
inflammatory bowel disease;
if you tend to burp up food, especially when lying down after a meal; or
if you have recently had any nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to receive ferumoxsil.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether ferumoxsil passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.