Iron Infusion Clinics
What is Infusion Therapy?
Infusion therapy is a medical treatment that involves the administration of medication or fluid through a vein using a needle or a catheter. The medication or fluid is delivered slowly over some time, typically ranging from a few minutes to several hours or even days.
This method allows for a higher concentration of nutrients to reach the body and can be used to treat conditions such as iron-deficiency anaemia or vitamin deficiencies.
Iron Infusion
What is an Iron Infusion?
Iron infusion is a medical procedure in which iron is administered to the body. It is typically used to treat iron-deficiency anaemia, a condition in which the body does not have enough iron to produce enough haemoglobin. This protein carries oxygen in the blood. Iron-deficiency anaemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.
Since the approval of a new iron formulation called FerInject to be covered by Medicare in eligible patients, more and more people have chosen to give iron intravenously.
Unlike previous formulations that must be diluted and given slowly over 6-7 hours, the new preparation FerInject can be given over 15 minutes.
No sedation is involved, and you can drive back to work after the infusion. The advantages of an iron infusion include the immediate boost in iron stores and the avoidance of common side effects of oral iron (constipation).
Liquid iron can be expensive if taken for an extended period (often months).
Who is Suitable for Iron Infusion?
Iron infusion is typically recommended for individuals with iron-deficiency anaemia, a condition where the body does not have enough iron to produce enough haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Iron-deficiency anaemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. Individuals who may be more likely to develop iron-deficiency anaemia include:
- Women with heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with gastrointestinal disorders that affect iron absorption, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease
- Individuals who have had gastric bypass surgery
- Individuals with blood loss from chronic kidney disease or cancer
What are the Benefits of Iron Infusion?
The benefits of iron infusion include the following:
- Increased production of haemoglobin and red blood cells, which can improve oxygenation to the body's tissues and organs
- Relief of symptoms associated with anaemia, such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath
- Improved quality of life
What are the Types of Iron Infusion?
There are two main types of iron infusions:
- Iron dextran: This is a form of iron bound to a sugar molecule and is considered a slow-release form of iron. Iron dextran is typically used in patients with severe anaemia who need a large amount of iron quickly.
- Iron sucrose is a form of iron bound to a sucrose molecule and is considered a slow-release form of iron. Iron sucrose is typically used in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Oral iron supplements are usually the first line of treatment for iron deficiency anaemia. Still, in cases where oral supplements are not effective or well tolerated, iron infusion may be necessary.
Iron Infusion Procedure
After being admitted by nursing staff and baseline observations have been taken (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation),
- The doctor will insert a cannula into a small vein in the arm or back of the hand.
- Your nurse will then connect a medication line to the cannula containing 20mL of Iron solution (corresponding to 1g of Iron).
- The infusion will commence once you are comfortable and take approximately 15 minutes.
- Once the infusion is complete, the medication line will be flushed with saline, disconnected, and removed just before discharge.
- Repeat observations will be taken upon completion of the infusion, and you will be discharged shortly after when deemed safe by your nurse.
Following your Iron infusion, you may:
- Eat and drink your regular diet
- Drive a vehicle
- Return to work
Side Effects of Iron Infusion
Iron infusions are usually well tolerated, but some patients may experience minor side effects such as chills, fever, headache, or flushing. More severe side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions, inflammation of the vein, or chest pain. The patient will be monitored for adverse reactions during and after the infusion.
What is the Cost of the Iron Infusion?
Our infusion fee covers the cost of the medicine, the infusion treatment, the doctor’s fees and all associated fees.
If you have private health insurance, you can obtain a total rebate depending on your coverage level. For more information on the refund or to make an appointment, please contact our clinic, and one of our friendly receptionists will be able to assist you.