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Intravenous (IV) Iron Infusion

Why is Iron so important?

Iron is important for many aspects of the body. It is used to make haemoglobin which carries oxygen from the lungs around the body. Iron also helps our muscles store & use oxygen.

Low iron levels may make you feel tired and unable to carry out your day-to-day routine.

If the iron in your body is too low your haemogolobin will become below normal levels. This is known as ‘Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA).

Iron deficiency symptoms include:

• Paleness
• Tiredness
• Low energy
• Feeling cold
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Infections due to low immunity

What is an Iron infusion?

It is a procedure that delivers iron into the body intravenously, where a needle is placed into a vein. A drip is then attached to the needle

Why might I need an iron infusion?

Initially, most people will try an oral iron supplement before Iron infusions. The majority of the time oral supplementation will adequately bring iron levels up to normal levels. In some instances, supplementation may not be effective for all patients. This could be because oral supplements have side effects which cause discomfort (upset stomach or constipation) or may not be effective in bringing patients iron levels sufficiently up to normal levels or it may not be absorbed in the gut correctly.

You may need an IV infusion if you:

• Cannot take oral supplements
• Cannot absorb iron adequately through the gut
• Cannot absorb enough iron due to blood loss
• Need to increase iron levels fast to avoid medical complications or a blood transfusion

How long does the Iron infusion take?

It will take approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Are there any side effects with IV iron?

Some immediate side effects of an iron infusion include the following:

• Tiredness
• Shortness of breath
• Cramps in the abdomen
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Dry mouth
• Hot flushes
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Muscle & joint pain

Will the iron deficiency recur?

It is fundamental to find the underlying cause for the iron deficiency anaemia.

The underlying cause may be due to diet, absorption issues, menstrual cycles, or treatment for blood loss from the intestine. If this is addressed and treated the iron deficiency most like will not recur.

Regular blood tests are recommended after treatment of iron deficiency, to monitor your ongoing iron levels.

Before your infusion

You do not have to do anything to prepare for an iron infusion. Fasting is not necessary but do ensure you keep hydrated. Bring your iron infusion medication with you to your appointment.

After you go home

It will normally take several days to a week to notice the benefits from your Iron Infusion. If you experience flu like symptoms immediately after your Infusion, you make take Panadol to relieve this. Ensure you rest and keep hydrated. No heavy lifting is advised for around 24 hours after your infusion.

If you have any additional questions, please consult your GP.