IV iron therapy can cause which adverse reaction?

IV iron therapy can cause which adverse reaction?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Hypersensitivity reactions
• C. Hyperglycemia
• D. Hyperkalemia

Answer: (B)

IV iron therapy can trigger hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, because the iron-carbohydrate complex given IV can activate immune pathways during the infusion. Historically, high-risk formulations like older iron dextran had a notable risk, which is why patients are monitored during infusions and, in some protocols, given a test dose. Modern IV iron products have much lower risk, but infusion reactions can still occur, so clinicians stay prepared with emergency treatments such as epinephrine and resuscitation equipment. Other potential adverse effects like hypertension, hyperglycemia, or hyperkalemia are not typical acute reactions to IV iron infusions, making hypersensitivity the most relevant concern to anticipate and monitor for during administration.

IV iron therapy can trigger hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, because the iron-carbohydrate complex given IV can activate immune pathways during the infusion. Historically, high-risk formulations like older iron dextran had a notable risk, which is why patients are monitored during infusions and, in some protocols, given a test dose. Modern IV iron products have much lower risk, but infusion reactions can still occur, so clinicians stay prepared with emergency treatments such as epinephrine and resuscitation equipment.

Other potential adverse effects like hypertension, hyperglycemia, or hyperkalemia are not typical acute reactions to IV iron infusions, making hypersensitivity the most relevant concern to anticipate and monitor for during administration.