Let’s get those iron levels up.
Some people may need iron replacement to be given straight into the body through a vein. Find out more about intravenous (IV) iron infusions…
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Information on this page is adapted from - Department for Health and Wellbeing, Government of South Australia. Intravenous (IV) iron infusions. Oct 2023. 23
What is IV iron?
What is IV iron?
Some people may need iron to be given straight into the body through a vein. This is called an Intravenous (IV) iron infusion. The iron is given through a cannula and dripped (‘infused’) into your vein. Sometimes two iron infusions (given at least one week apart) are needed to fully top up iron stores. The infusion is made up of iron, not blood.
You might need IV iron if you...?
You might need IV iron if you...?
- Are not able to take iron tablets / liquid.
- Are not responding to iron tablets / liquid or not absorbing them.
- Need to get your iron levels up quickly (eg. before major surgery, late in pregnancy or to avoid blood transfusion).
- Have chronic kidney disease or chronic heart failure.
Your doctor should explain why you need IV iron and the other options.
What your doctor or nurse needs to know before they give you an infusion.
What your doctor or nurse needs to know before they give you an infusion.
You need to tell your doctor and the centre doing your iron infusion if you:
- Are pregnant / trying to get pregnant. IV iron should be avoided in the first trimester.
- Have a history of asthma, eczema or other allergies.
- Have had a reaction to any type of iron injection or infusion in the past.
- Have a history of high iron levels, haemochromatosis or liver problems.
- Are on any medications (including herbal and over the counter medicines).
- Have (or may have) an infection at the moment.
Are there any side effects with IV iron?
Are there any side effects with IV iron?
Generally, when side effects do occur, they are mild and settle down on their own. The most common side effects are temporary and include:
- Headache, feeling sick or vomiting, muscle or joint pain.
- Changes in taste (e.g. metallic).
- Changes to blood pressure or pulse.
Skin staining (brown discolouration) may occur due to leakage of iron into the tissues around the needle (drip) site. This is not common but the stain can be long lasting or permanent. Inform the doctor or nurse straight away of any discomfort, burning, redness or swelling at the needle (drip) site.
Rarely, some patients may have an allergic (anaphylaxis) reaction to the IV iron, it is important to inform the doctor or nurse administering the medication if you become breathless or dizzy.
If you have chest pain, trouble breathing, dizziness or neck / mouth swelling, please seek urgent medical attention / call an ambulance (000).
If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor
If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor
Sometimes side effects (eg. headache, muscle or joint pain) can start 1 to 2 days later. Mostly they will settle down by themselves over the next couple of days. If they worry you or interfere with your daily activities contact your doctor or infusion centre for advice. Another consequence of IV iron can be a lowering of blood phosphate levels. In most cases this resolves by itself and does not cause symptoms. But if you experience pain in your bones or muscles 5-20 days after your infusion it is important that you report this to your doctor.
How to get ready for your infusion?
How to get ready for your infusion?
There is nothing special that you need to do to get ready for the day of iron infusion.
- In the lead up drink lots of fluids (unless you are on a fluid restriction). Fluids help to ensure you are hydrated will help with finding an accessible vein.
- You do NOT need to fast for the infusion, you can eat and drink normally.
- If you have a prescription for your intravenous iron, do NOT put it in the fridge to store and remember to bring it with you to the infusion.
What happens on the day?
What happens on the day?
The infusion can be given in about 15 minutes. On the day:
- The doctor or infusion nurse will explain the infusion and ask you to sign a consent form.
- Your doctor or nurse will administer the IV iron into a vein, usually in your arm or hand.
- Sometimes a cannula can be difficult to put in. If your doctor is not comfortable that it is well placed, they may need to reschedule your infusion.
- You will need to stay for 30 minutes after your infusion, to be observed.
- You can ask to lie down for your infusion, if you prefer.
What to expect after your infusion
What to expect after your infusion
Unless you have an unexpected reaction (this is rare) you will be able to drive home and resume normal activities but you may prefer to arrange a lift home from the centre. Before leaving the infusion centre, ensure that you have:
- The number to contact if you have any worries or questions.
- Dates for any follow up tests and/or appointments.
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