The treatment of Fe overdose starts with attention to supportive care and adequate fluid resuscitation.
- Isotonic fluids: Numerous reasons account for hypovolemia and poor perfusion. Start fluid resuscitation with isotonic fluid boluses to restore hypovolemia.
- Activated charcoal (or other oral complexing agents): This is INEFFECTIVE at binding Fe to limit absorption.
- Whole bowel irrigation: This may be considered when Fe tablets are visualized on the KUB film. However, no controlled studies support the efficacy of WBI and so individual risks and benefits should be considered. WBI is achieved by administration of polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution via NG tube at recommended rates of 500 mL/hr in children and 1.5 – 2 L/hr in adolescents and adults.
- Gastric lavage: Generally NOT recommended
