Intravenous iron infusions treat iron deficiency anemia when oral iron is not working. It involves delivering iron directly to the bloodstream using a catheter needle. The needle is attached to a drip that contains a sterile saline solution and is inserted in your vein at the back of the hand or arm. This method is also known as intravenous (IV) infusion. It can also treat severe cases of anemia as it increases iron levels quickly. Your doctor or medical provider performs this procedure in the clinic or a medical office.
Why You May Need Intravenous Iron Infusions
Intravenous iron infusions are recommended when oral supplements fail to work or you have a condition that prevents your body from absorbing iron from the gastrointestinal tract. You may need IV iron if:
- You are not able to take iron orally
- Need to increase your iron levels quickly before a major surgery
- Severe iron deficiency anemia
- Your body is not responding to iron tablets or not absorbing them. This can be due to gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn’s disease.
- If you have heart failure or chronic kidney disease
- Intolerance to oral iron: you may feel nauseous or experience constipation when taking oral iron supplements.
Intravenous Iron Infusion Process
Before your first intravenous iron infusion, your doctor will decide how much iron you need. Your dose is calculated based on your weight and the amount of hemoglobin in your body. They will ask you about:
- Your medical history
- Allergies
- Any supplements you take without a prescription
- Medications you take
How Long Does an Intravenous Iron Infusion Take?
This depends on the amount of iron to be administered. The procedure can take approximately 30 minutes to one hour. During the process and for at least thirty minutes after the procedure, you will be observed for any side effects and changes in your blood pressure and heart rate to ensure your safety. Depending on the amount of iron your body needs, you may need to receive a second infusion in a week.
How To Prepare for Intravenous Iron Infusion
Your medical provider will instruct you on preparing before your first infusion. However, some basic things to do to prepare are:
- Ensure you take your regular medication
- Be ready to have a drip put on your hand or arm
- Know how to call for help in case of any reactions during the procedure
- Communicate with your doctor before the procedure to calm your nerves
Potential Side Effects
Intravenous Iron infusions are generally safe, so don’t be worried. And when side effects occur, they are mild and usually settle down on their own. However, it is necessary to communicate with your doctor about the potential side effects. Your medical provider will assess and determine whether IV infusions are for you.
Some side effects that you might experience are:
- Changes in taste: you might feel metallic taste
- Your blood pressure may change
- Headache
- Nauseous
- Muscle or joint pain
- Skin staining, though rare, may occur if the iron drips in the tissue around the needle site. This can be permanent or long-lasting.
- Serious allergic reactions
Learn More About Intravenous Iron Infusions with Cancer and Blood Disorders Treatment and Infusion Center
We understand that patients need careful evaluation to determine their anemia’s cause before recommending therapy, as IV infusion is not a treatment for all anemias. At the Cancer and Blood Disorders Treatment and Infusion Center, we are involved in our patient’s care on a one-to-one basis. We also encourage our patients to contact our office in case of any symptoms or physical symptoms when they are under active treatment.
For consultation or to learn more about the benefits of intravenous iron infusions, contact us at 301-638-1007 or fill out our online contact us form.