Laxative with strong electrolytic and osmotic effects that has cathartic actions in the GI tract. All patients who are symptomatic should be treated with deferoxamine, regardless of iron level. Patients who have been hemodynamically unstable should be admitted to an intensive care unit. Whole bowel irrigation may be of benefit. Other modalities that may be essential include mechanical ventilation and blood product transfusions.
Aggressive hydration aids in eliminating chelated iron by maintaining an appropriate urine output.
Transfer of patients should occur if intensive care faclities or deferoxamine availablity are not available locally. Safe keeping of all medications, not just iron pills from young children. All medicines should be kept out of reach of children. Discharging a stage 2 patient. Patients in stage 2 may appear well but still have the potential of cardiovascular collapse.