PARENTERAL IRON Meaning and
Definition
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Parenteral iron refers to the administration of iron directly into the bloodstream, typically through intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) routes, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. It is used as a therapy for iron deficiency anemia when oral iron supplementation is ineffective or impractical.
Iron is an essential mineral necessary for various physiological functions, including the production of red blood cells and oxygen transport. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body's iron stores are insufficient, resulting in decreased red blood cell production and reduced delivery of oxygen to tissues.
Parenteral iron is a preferred treatment option in cases where oral iron is poorly absorbed, cannot be tolerated due to adverse effects, or does not provide adequate iron replenishment. It allows for a more rapid replenishment of iron stores since it is directly delivered into the bloodstream.
Parenteral iron preparations may come in the form of iron dextran, ferric carboxymaltose, ferric gluconate, or iron sucrose. These formulations have different characteristics, such as varying molecular weights and stability, affecting their safety, dosage, and administration methods.
While parenteral iron is generally safe and effective, it can occasionally cause adverse reactions, including allergic reactions, hypotension, and iron overload. Therefore, it should be administered under medical supervision, with careful consideration of the individual's iron status, potential risks, and benefits.
In summary, parenteral iron is an intravenous or intramuscular method of delivering iron directly into the bloodstream for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia when oral iron supplementation is inadequate or not tolerated.
Etymology of PARENTERAL IRON
The word "parenteral iron" is derived from the combination of two terms: "parenteral" and "iron".
The term "parenteral" comes from the Latin word "parēns", meaning "parent" or "producer", which is related to the verb "parere", meaning "to bring forth". In medical terminology, "parenteral" refers to the administration of substances through a route other than the digestive tract, typically by injection or infusion.
The term "iron" originates from the Old English word "īsern", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "īsarna". This Proto-Germanic term is believed to have derived from the Latin word "ferrum", meaning "iron".
Therefore, when combined, "parenteral iron" refers to the administration of iron through injections or infusions, bypassing the digestive tract.
