Iron Infusion

What is an IV iron infusion?

Intravenous or IV means giving something directly into the blood stream of the body through your vein.

Why is iron important?

Iron is essential for the body to make haemoglobin (Hb) - red blood cells, which is important for carrying oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Low haemoglobin levels (also known as anaemia) make you feel tired. Very low levels may require you to have a blood transfusion.

Why are you being given an iron infusion?

The most common way to treat iron deficiency anaemia is to take iron by mouth as a tablet or liquid. Intravenous iron infusion is an alternative way of giving iron.

IV iron infusion is given if you are:

• Unable to tolerate iron taken by mouth.
• Unable to absorb iron through the gut.
• In need of a rapid increase in iron levels to avoid complications or a blood transfusion.

Before you have an iron infusion, tell your doctor if you:

• Have had a reaction to any type of iron injection or infusion in the past.
• Have a history of asthma, eczema or allergy.
• Have a history of liver disease.
• Have a relative that has a hemochromatosis.
• Are trying to get pregnant, pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Are on medication (including herbal or over the counter medication).

On the day of the infusion:

• Have your breakfast or lunch - you do not need to fast for an iron infusion.
• Take all your regular medications.

Other medication:

There is no benefit in taking iron tablets or liquid when you are having an iron infusion. If you are taking supplements, tell your doctor.

How an iron infusion is given

Your doctor will determine if you need an IV iron infusion based on your blood results and situation. They may need your weight to calculate the correct does. Infusions are prepared in bags by nursing staff and given via a small IV drip into a vein in your arm or hand.

Let staff know if you feel unwell at any time during the infusion. Ring your bell.

• Iron infusions - iron polymaltose may be given over 4 - 6 hours.
• Rapid iron infusion - iron carboxymaltose may be given just over an hour.

After your test

Your doctor may require you to have blood tests after the iron infusion to monitor haemoglobin levels.

Overall this is a safe procedure. Allergic reactions are rare and would happen during an infusion when staff members are available to help you.

Delayed reactions are also uncommon but may occur in the days after the infusion. If you are concerned about any of the following symptoms contact your own doctor or the doctor who referred you for the iron infusion. Also let the doctor know if you are booked for further iron infusions.

• Headache.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Hhills and fevers.
• Joint pains.
• Feeling faint or dizzy.

To help you prepare for your procedure a copy of key information is provided here for you to download and print.

• We advise you to apply to your insurance company for prior approval before your admission.
• Bring your health insurance prior approval letter to your appointment.
• With the exception of Southern Cross, once your account has been finalised, we will forward your invoice to your insurance company.
• If you do not have medical insurance or prior approval from your medical insurance, we will calculate an estimated total cost of your procedure and a deposit will be required on admission.  On completion of your stay your account will be processed and the amount adjusted accordingly. The total amount charged varies from patient to patient and any extra charges are to be settled on discharge.