Is there a difference between the allergic potencies of the iron sucrose and low molecular weight iron dextran?
GROUND: The objectives of the present trial were to compare the side effects and safety of two intravenous iron preparations (iron-dextran, iron-sucrose) in patients with end stage renal disease. METHODS: A total of 60 patients were randomized and assigned to one of two treatment groups (iron-dextran, n = 30; iron-sucrose, n = 30). A standard test dose of 25 mg of low molecular weight iron-dextran and iron-sucrose were administered over 15 minutes during the initial visit, monitoring very closely for adverse reactions. If this dose was well tolerated, 75 mg of iron diluted in 100 mL of normal saline was administered over 30 minutes. Adverse reactions were recorded. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 51.5+/-17.4 years (range, 21 to 80 years). Of the 30 patients who received low molecular weight iron-dextran, 11 developed side effects (pruritus, 1 patient; wheezing, 1 patient; chest pain, 1 patient; nausea, 4 patients; hypotension, 1 patient; swelling, 1 patient; headache, 2 patie
