Abstract: An iron-dextran compound for parenteral treatment of iron-deficiency anemia comprises hydrogenated dextran having a weight average molecular weight (Mw) between 700 and 1,400 Daltons, preferably approximately 1,000 Daltons, a number average molecular weight (Mn) of 400 to 1,400 Daltons and wherein 90% by weight of the dextran has molecular weights less than 2,700 Daltons and the Mw of the 10% by weight fraction of the dextran having the highest molecular weights is below 3,200 Daltons, said hydrogenated dextran having been subjected to purification by membrane processes having a cut-off value between 340 and 800 Daltons, in stable association with ferric oxyhydroxide.

Abstract: An isolated plasmalopsychosine selected from the group consisting of compound A and compound B: ##STR1## wherein n1 is 0-50 or an isolated synthetic plasmalocerebroside selected from the group consisting of compound C and compound D: ##STR2## wherein n2 and n3 each is 0-50.