Information Session

28th August, 2025Understanding Iron Infusions

Feeling tired is an unfortunate hallmark of modern life. With so much to achieve in a day and coffee only fuelling us so far, it’s easy to overlook small signs our bodies give us that something is amiss with our iron levels.

Iron is an essential mineral that supports many bodily functions, most importantly the production of haemoglobin in red blood cells. When iron stores are low, your body may struggle to transport oxygen effectively around your body, leaving you feeling flat, fatigued and all around average. When an iron deficiency is mild, dietary changes or oral supplements might do the job. When the deficiency is more serious, an iron infusion can make a profound difference, restoring energy and putting a bounce back in your step.

Read on to learn about the process, the post-treatment maintenance, and the potential iron infusion side effects.

What is an iron infusion?

An iron infusion is a medical procedure in which iron is delivered directly into your bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) drip. This administration method means the iron bypasses the digestive system, allowing your body to soak it up more quickly and efficiently than with tablets or diet alone.

Iron infusions are typically recommended when:

• Oral iron supplements haven’t worked or caused unwanted side effects.
• Iron stores need to be pumped up quickly.
• You have a condition that affects iron absorption, such as coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.

The aim of an iron infusion is simple: to replenish your iron stores, improve haemoglobin levels and get you back to feeling energised and well. All with one simple treatment!

What to expect during the process

One of the most reassuring things about an iron infusion is that it’s very straightforward. First up, low iron levels need to be confirmed with a blood test, then the doctors practising at Carina Medical will discuss your medical history to ensure the treatment is right for you.

During the actual procedure, your practitioner will insert a small cannula into a vein, usually in your arm or hand. The iron solution is then slowly released into your bloodstream via a drip. Depending on the type of infusion, this can take between 15 minutes to an hour.

After the infusion, you’ll usually be asked to wait briefly so staff can make sure you feel tip-top before heading home. Most people are able to resume their normal activities straight away, though it’s always best to take it easy for the rest of the day.

Iron infusions are generally a calm, comfortable experience. You may even want to use the time to relax with a book or a podcast!

Potential iron infusion side effects

Like any medical treatment, iron infusions have the possibility of side effects, but these are uncommon, mild and temporary. The possible iron infusion side effects include:

• A metallic taste in your mouth during the infusion.
• Temporary changes in skin colour at the injection site.
• A mild headache, dizziness or nausea.

If these symptoms do occur, they aren’t typically serious enough to require any further treatment. Severe side effects like allergic reactions are very rare, and for most people, the benefits of restoring iron levels far outweigh the small risk. If anything unusual does happen, the doctors practising at Carina Medical are well-prepared to respond with the care you need.

Energy levels and iron maintenance post-treatment

After an iron infusion, many people notice a gradual improvement in energy. This can happen within a few days to a week after the infusion, or for others it can take two to four weeks to feel the full benefit of the treatment. The speed of the bounce back depends on your starting iron levels, your overall health, and whether your iron deficiency has a cause that still needs to be managed.

Following up with your doctor after the infusion is important. They can check your progress, ensure your iron levels remain healthy, and guide you through any relevant long-term changes that can prevent your iron levels dropping again.

This might involve eating iron-rich foods (think: lean red meat, poultry, legumes, leafy greens and fortified cereals), consuming plant-based iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods to boost absorption, and addressing any underlying medical conditions. If you arm yourself with a plan that fits in with your lifestyle, you’ll get long-lasting benefits from your iron infusion.

A simple, safe treatment

If you’ve never had an iron infusion before, it’s natural to feel a little hesitant. But rest assured, most people are pleasantly surprised by how simple and uneventful the process is. By delivering iron directly into the bloodstream, infusions are a safe, effective and relatively quick solution for people struggling with low iron levels. And iron infusion side effects are minimal, meaning little risk or downtime. They can help you feel more energised, improve concentration, and restore your overall wellbeing.

If you’re feeling constantly drained or unwell, it’s worth speaking with one of the doctors practising at Carina Medical to see if an iron infusion might be right for you. For many, it’s a small step that makes a big difference, turning persistent fatigue into an abundant source of energy.