Chronic kidney failure, or Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their function, often leading to complications such as anaemia. One of the primary causes of anaemia in CKD patients is iron deficiency, which hinders the production of healthy red blood cells. Iron deficiency anaemia treatment becomes vital for these patients, as it can severely impact their quality of life.
How is iron deficiency anaemia related to CKD?
Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce healthy red blood cells. In patients with CKD, several factors contribute to iron deficiency:
- Reduced Kidney Function: The kidneys produce erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. In CKD, the damaged kidneys produce less EPO, leading to fewer red blood cells.
- Blood Loss: Patients with CKD may experience blood loss due to frequent blood tests, dialysis, or gastrointestinal bleeding, further depleting iron stores.
- Poor Iron Absorption: CKD patients often have reduced iron absorption due to underlying inflammation, decreased appetite, or dietary restrictions.
Which medicine helps tackle iron deficiency in CKD?
Encicarb 500mg Injection is one of the most effective medications for treating iron deficiency anaemia in CKD patients. It is an intravenous iron therapy that helps replenish iron stores in the body, especially when oral iron supplements are insufficient or poorly absorbed.
Unlike oral iron supplements, which can take months to show significant improvements, Encicarb delivers iron directly into the bloodstream, ensuring a faster and more efficient restoration of iron levels. This is crucial for CKD patients who often struggle with severe anaemia and cannot wait for gradual improvements from oral treatments.
How does Encicarb work in iron deficiency CKD treatment?
Encicarb delivers iron in a form readily absorbed by the body. Once administered intravenously, the iron in Encicarb is taken up by the bone marrow, where it is used to produce haemoglobin—the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells.
It also helps restore the body's ability to transport oxygen, relieving symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. This relief from debilitating symptoms can bring a sense of hope and optimism to CKD patients.
The benefits include:
- Faster Iron Repletion: Since they bypass the digestive system, intravenous iron therapies like Encicarb lead to faster iron repletion than oral supplements.
- Improved Hemoglobin Levels: Encicarb helps raise haemoglobin levels, reducing the need for blood transfusions in CKD patients with severe anaemia.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: By alleviating the symptoms of anaemia, Encicarb improves the overall quality of life for CKD patients, allowing them to maintain better energy levels and physical activity.
What is the other course of treatment for CKD anaemia?
In addition to intravenous iron therapies like Encicarb, other anaemia medications for CKD may be used in conjunction with or as alternatives to iron therapy:
- Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents (ESAs): These medications, such as epoetin alfa, stimulate the production of red blood cells. They are often used in combination with iron therapy to maximise the body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells.
- Oral Iron Supplements: For patients with milder iron deficiency or those who cannot access intravenous iron therapies, oral iron supplements may be prescribed. However, their effectiveness is often limited in CKD patients due to poor absorption.
- Blood Transfusions: In cases of severe anaemia where other treatments have failed, blood transfusions may be necessary. However, due to the risks associated with transfusions, this option is generally reserved for emergencies.
Monitoring and managing side effects
While some medicines are generally well-tolerated, patients may experience side effects such as headaches, dizziness, or low blood pressure. In rare cases, allergic reactions may occur, so healthcare providers need to monitor patients closely during and after administration. Regular blood tests are also necessary to track iron levels and haemoglobin counts to ensure the treatment is working as expected.
Treating iron deficiency anaemia in adults with chronic kidney failure requires a comprehensive approach. For patients who struggle with oral iron supplements or those undergoing dialysis, Encicarb provides an effective and reliable solution. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best anaemia treatment plan based on individual needs.
