What is Iron and why do we need it?

Iron is a metal that is needed in our body to produce haemoglobin in red blood cells. Haemoglobin carries oxygen to the cells in our body via blood to maintain our cellular function.  It is  important for muscle strength, energy level, function of our glands and  mental wellbeing. When we have low iron in our body we feel tired, lethargic, irritable, weak and can lead to decreased production to red cell haemoglobin leading to IDA( Iron Deficiency Anaemia).

Who needs Iron Infusion?

 Iron Infusion might be needed if you:

  • Are not able to take iron supplements orally
  • Are not getting better on oral iron therapy or not absorbing them
  • Need to restore iron deficiency fast (eg. before major surgery, late in pregnancy or to avoid blood transfusion)
  • If you have renal impairment or chronic heart disease.

What are the common side effects of iron infusion?

Generally, when side effects do occur, they are mild and settle down on their own. The most common side effects are temporary and include:

  • Dizziness (1%)
  • Nausea (3%)
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhoea
  • Skin rash
  • Local reaction to the infusion site (redness, slight swelling)
  • Some patients report a metallic taste in their mouth
  • Changes to blood pressure
  • Skin staining (brown discoloration) 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.
  • Even though it is very uncommon; some people may have a serious allergic reaction. In rare cases this can be life threatening.

What is the Cost of Iron Infusion?

The Private Clinic fee for an iron infusion is $75.00 PER iron infusion. The medication required for the infusion is a separate cost( for Medicare holders- roughly $40.00 concession holders roughly $10.00), Please contact your pharmacy to find out the cost of the Iron medication required for the infusion and mention if you have Medicare

Please contact us at 03) 9112 5533 to book your initial consultation  (Consultations are mandatory prior to infusions and are bulk billed- Please bring your recent blood test results with you

What to tell your Doctor for an iron infusion?

You need to tell your doctor if you:

  • Are currently pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
  • Have a personal history of asthma, eczema or other allergies.
  • Have had a previous reaction to any type of iron injection or infusion.
  • Have a history of Iron overload, Haemochromatosis or liver disorder.
  • Are currently taking any medications (including herbal and over the counter medicines).
  • Have any infection at present.

What you need to know about Iron infusion

  • You will need to have an initial consultation with Doctor prior to your infusion Procedure. In this consultation the doctor will do the assessment ( to check suitability of having infusion done at a clinic) and will provide the script for iron injections. Then you will be booked for the procedure on a later date. Please note that the procedure and the initial consultation CAN NOT be done on the same day.
  • Fasting for the procedure is not required
  • Continue to take your regular medication
  • You can drive home after the infusion and resume usual duties (unless there are expected reactions)
  • If you are given a script, please have this filled and bring it with you to your infusion appointment (It may be worthwhile to check with your pharmacy that they stock the Ferinject)
  • You will have an IV (Intravenous line) cannula injected, please wear warm clothes, that have loose arms.
  • Feel free to bring along a book, iPad etc., to keep you occupied during your infusion – generally you will be at the clinic 1-2 hours.
  • You will be monitored during the procedure by nurses who check: Blood pressure, temperature, pulse and breathing rates.
  • As with all medications, there is a risk of side effects.