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Summary
High-dose iron dextran in pregnant rabbits and rats negatively impacted dam weight and increased fetal mortality. Offspring iron levels normalized post-birth, with no long-term pathology observed in either species.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Iron dextran is used to treat iron deficiency anemia.
- High-dose iron administration during pregnancy requires careful safety evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of intravenous iron dextran administration on pregnant rabbits and rats.
- To assess the impact on maternal health, fetal outcomes, and offspring iron levels.
Main Methods:
- Rabbits received three intravenous doses of iron dextran (5-150 mg Fe/kg) late in gestation.
- Rats received four intravenous doses of iron dextran (400-800 mg Fe/kg) during late gestation.
- Maternal weight, fetal mortality, and tissue iron concentrations in dams and offspring were analyzed.
Main Results:
- In rabbits, high-dose iron dextran (150 mg Fe/kg) reduced dam weight gain and increased fetal mortality.
- In rats, high-dose iron dextran (800 mg Fe/kg) caused maternal tremors, reduced weight gain, and affected offspring growth and survival.
- Offspring iron levels normalized within weeks, and no iron-induced pathology was found long-term.
Conclusions:
- Intravenous iron dextran at high doses during late gestation poses risks to dams and fetuses in rabbits and rats.
- Maternal effects significantly influence offspring outcomes.
- Iron levels in offspring normalize post-gestation, and no lasting pathology is observed.