Provides elemental iron for hemoglobin synthesis; dextran complex allows slow release from reticuloendothelial system, replenishing iron stores
At a glance
Class
Parenteral iron supplement
Storage
Store below 25°C; do not freeze; discard if discolored
Dosing
Iron-deficiency anemia (chronic blood loss, hookworm, neonatal)
Dose
10–20 mg elemental iron/kg
Frequency
Once; may repeat in 7–10 days if needed
Duration: 1–3 doses typically; address underlying cause
Iron-deficiency anemia
Dose
10–20 mg elemental iron/kg
Frequency
Once; may repeat in 7–10 days
Duration: 1–2 doses; address underlying cause
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Pain at injection site
Skin staining
Transient lethargy
Serious
Anaphylaxis
Iron overload toxicosis
Reticulocyte countPCV/HematocritSerum ironResponse in 5–7 days
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
India
Jectofer
AstraZeneca India
Iron Sorbitol
Sarabhai Chemicals
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Iron Dextran?
Iron Dextran is a parenteral iron supplement used in pets. Provides elemental iron for hemoglobin synthesis; dextran complex allows slow release from reticuloendothelial system, replenishing iron stores
›What is Iron Dextran used for in pets?
Iron Dextran is used in veterinary medicine for: Iron-deficiency anemia (chronic blood loss, hookworm, neonatal); Iron-deficiency anemia.
›What is the Iron Dextran dose for dogs?
For dogs, Iron Dextran is typically dosed as follows — Iron-deficiency anemia (chronic blood loss, hookworm, neonatal): 10–20 mg elemental iron/kg IM (deep) Once; may repeat in 7–10 days if needed. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Iron Dextran dose for cats?
For cats, Iron Dextran is typically dosed as follows — Iron-deficiency anemia: 10–20 mg elemental iron/kg IM (deep) Once; may repeat in 7–10 days. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Iron Dextran?
Common: Pain at injection site, Skin staining, Transient lethargy. Serious (call your vet immediately): Anaphylaxis, Iron overload toxicosis.
›Does Iron Dextran need a prescription?
Yes. Iron Dextran is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Iron Dextran not be used?
Do not use Iron Dextran if: Non-iron-deficiency anemias (hemolytic, chronic disease); Known hypersensitivity.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database