Iron Infusion Therapy

An iron infusion is a minor procedure. It involves infusing an iron containing medicine directly into the blood circulation. The iron-containing preparation circulates and is delivered to the body organs that require iron for normal functioning. Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) also known as FERINJECT®, is an intravenous (IV) iron preparation. It is used in the treatment of iron deficiency conditions such as iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA). It contains iron in the form of ferric carboxymaltose, an iron carbohydrate compound.

An iron infusion is sometimes recommended for people who are low in iron (iron deficient). If the body iron is particularly low an iron infusion may be recommended to increase the iron stores quickly. The aim of the iron infusion therapy is to replenish body iron stores and to remedy anaemia, a reduced level of haemoglobin due to iron deficiency.

How often the iron infusion treatment is needed varies depending on the condition that is causing the iron deficiency, and whether it persists. One treatment is often enough to improve the condition.

It may take around six to twelve weeks for the effects of an iron infusion to work in your body. It is usually a gradual improvement, with steadily increasing levels of energy, improved sleep quality and better mood and memory. For some people, the improvements will be very noticeable, while for others it will be subtle. The effect of iron infusions vary from person to person. If you have any questions about the way your iron infusion is making you feel, speak with your GP.

Iron infusions are considered safe. Particularly with the newer iron containing preparations currently available. In the past (older) iron infusions were associated with common side-effects including allergic type reactions. This is much less common with the current iron containing preparation (Ferric carboxymaltose FCM also known as FERINJECT®) but this is still a potential risk. Your doctor will talk to you about the risks and the benefits of having an iron infusion in your particular circumstances.

An iron infusion is not usually considered to be a painful procedure. You may feel some mild effects of the infusion for 1-2 days following the procedure. If you begin to experience any chest pain, difficulty breathing or dizziness, it’s important to immediately seek medical attention and raise the issue with your GP when next available.

It is unusual to experience any significant side effects from an iron infusion with the newer iron containing medications. Some patients may experience a headache or feel nauseated. Less commonly some patients experience flushing, a disturbance in taste, itchiness, fever and chills. Please see the full list of side effects of iron infusions given to you by your doctor.

Iron staining is an uncommon but not unheard of adverse effect of intravenous iron administration. Your doctor will apply principles and techniques that are used to reduce the risk of intravenous iron stains. The rate of skin discolouration with intravenous iron preparations has been reported in clinical trials as 0.68% to 1.3%.

There is no particular preparation needed for the iron infusion. It is helpful if you have had plenty of fluids to drink so finding a vein for the infusion can be easier. You will be able to drive home after the iron infusion. The infusion usually takes between 45-60 minutes.

It is always important to monitor your own health after an iron infusion. If you experience any significant symptoms (for example chest pain or difficulty breathing) contact your doctor who administered the iron infusion or an emergency department.

Some people will feel a little tired after an iron infusion, this should pass within a few days. If you are feeling unusual tiredness in the weeks following your iron infusion, follow-up with your doctor.