The Scottish Medicines Consortium accepts new drug for the treatment of iron deficiency in adults

The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) has accepted iron isomaltoside 1000 5% (Diafer) for use within the NHS Scotland for the treatment of iron deficiency in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis, when oral iron preparations are ineffective or cannot be used. Iron isomaltoside is a low dose iron preparation, especially formulated for use in adults with chronic kidney disease on dialysis. Anaemia affects over two-thirds (68%) of people starting dialysis and having adequate iron stores is essential for achieving optimal haemoglobin (Hb) levels and maximum benefit from erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). Decreased iron stores or decreased availability of iron are the most