Ferric carboxymaltose (iron injection)
Ferric carboxymaltose is a iron given into a vein found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Orofer FCM. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
Also called: fcm, ferric carboxymaltose
What it is used for
Quickly refills iron stores in iron-deficiency anaemia when tablets do not work or are not tolerated, including in pregnancy.
How it works
An iron injection given into a vein to replace iron quickly when tablets do not work or are not tolerated.
How to take it
Given as a drip or slow injection in a clinic, usually 1 or 2 doses.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Nausea
- Flushing
- Skin staining if it leaks at the drip site
Get medical help straight away if
- Allergic reaction during or soon after the infusion
- Bone pain or weakness (low phosphate after repeated doses)
Be careful
Given in a clinic or hospital; can rarely cause allergic reactions and low phosphate.
Other medicines and interactions
Stop iron tablets while receiving it unless told otherwise.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not used in the first three months of pregnancy; may be used later if needed. Acceptable while breastfeeding.
Brands of Ferric carboxymaltose (1)
Common questions
What is Ferric carboxymaltose used for?
Quickly refills iron stores in iron-deficiency anaemia when tablets do not work or are not tolerated, including in pregnancy.
How does Ferric carboxymaltose work?
An iron injection given into a vein to replace iron quickly when tablets do not work or are not tolerated.
How should I take Ferric carboxymaltose?
Given as a drip or slow injection in a clinic, usually 1 or 2 doses.
What are the side effects of Ferric carboxymaltose?
Common: Headache, nausea, flushing, skin staining if it leaks at the drip site. Get help straight away for: Allergic reaction during or soon after the infusion, bone pain or weakness (low phosphate after repeated doses).
Does Ferric carboxymaltose interact with other medicines?
Stop iron tablets while receiving it unless told otherwise.
Is Ferric carboxymaltose safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Not used in the first three months of pregnancy; may be used later if needed. Acceptable while breastfeeding.
Does Ferric carboxymaltose need a prescription in India?
Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.
Which brands contain Ferric carboxymaltose?
Orofer FCM.
Sources and further reading
- Ferric carboxymaltose (iron injection): NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
🔎 Search another medicine