IRON PRODUCTS

Ferinject^® (ferric carboxymaltose) is an intravenous (i.v.) iron indicated for the treatment of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia, where oral iron is ineffective or cannot be used or when there is a clinical need to deliver iron rapidly.

Among others, iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia are especially common in patients who suffer from chronic kidney disease (CKD), heart failure and inflammatory bowel disease. It is also a condition affecting patients in preoperative and perioperative situations, as well as premenopausal women, including women affected by heavy menstrual bleeding and in peri-partum.

In the US, Ferinject^® is commercialised under the brand name Injectafer^®. Ferinject^® has received market approval in 82 countries.

The active ingredient of Ferinject^®, ferric carboxymaltose, is composed of a poly-nuclear iron core stabilised by a carboxymaltose shell that ensures an effective iron utilisation. When injected, this complex releases the iron, which will be either stored or exported in the blood plasma for transportation and utilisation where it is needed.

Venofer^® (iron sucrose (iron (III)-hydroxide sucrose complex) is a low-dose intravenous (i.v.) iron sucrose product, used for i.v. treatment of iron deficiency when oral iron preparations are ineffective or cannot be used e.g. in anaemic dialysis patients.

Venofer^® is a nanomedicine, recognised by the US Food and drug administration.

Scientific evidence demonstrates that nanomedicine similars have a different efficacy and safety profile compared with Venofer^®.

For patients suffering from kidney disease, kidney dysfunction can lead to a deficit in the production of erythropoietin (EPO), a natural hormone produced by the kidneys, which regulates the production of red blood cells. Therefore, a deficit in EPO leads to a deficit in red blood cells, a condition known as anaemia. Venofer^®, taken with medications that stimulate the production of EPO, increases iron levels, allowing the body to effectively produce more red blood cells and control anaemia.

Maltofer^®, an oral iron polymaltose complex (IPC), is registered in 82 countries as an oral iron therapy for infants, children, adolescents and pregnant women suffering from iron deficiency.

Maltofer^® is absorbed by the body in a way that ensures iron is delivered in a more controlled manner, avoiding unwanted side effects such as constipation, bloating and nausea.

This way, patients can easily adhere to the treatment and correct iron levels.