Differences between the original iron sucrose complex Venofer® and the iron sucrose similar Generis®, and potential implications.

TOBLLI JE; CAO G; OLIVERI L; ANGEROSA M

REVISTA PORTUGUESA DE NEFROLOGIA E HIPERTENSAO

Thomson Reuters

Año: 2009 vol. 23 p. 53 - 63

0872-0169

Abstract The original iron sucrose complex (Venofer®) is used to treat iron deficiency anaemia, however ?generic? compounds known as iron sucrose similar are now available that have subtle structural differences. This study explores possible haemodynamic and functional differences between Venofer® and a Portuguese iron sucrose similar (Generis®). Thirty rats were divided into three groups and assigned to receive Generis®, Venofer® (ORIGINATOR) or isotonic saline solution (control). Five single intravenous doses of iron (40 mg iron/kg) or saline (equivalent volume) were administered every 7 days for 4 weeks. Blood and urine samples were collected for biological assessment prior to sacrifice (day 28) after which kidney, liver, and heart homogenates were collected for determination of antioxidant enzyme levels. Immmunohistochemistry techniques were used to identify tissue ferritin and pro-inflammatory markers. Systolic blood pressure was significantly reduced in the Generis® group relative to the ORIGINATOR and control groups (p