Iron Infusion

Iron deficiency has many causes which may require further investigation by your doctor. Iron is an essential mineral and adequate levels are required for the normal production of haemoglobin and red blood cells, which carry oxygen in the blood.

 

Iron deficiency can cause lethargy, fatigue and in more severe cases, anaemia which can cause a pale complexion, dizziness, shortness of breath and a reduced capacity for exercise. In pregnancy, iron deficiency can cause restricted foetal growth. There are three ways in which iron levels can be replenished; orally, intramuscularly, and intravenously.

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Oral iron has the advantage of being simple and cost-effective, but is limited by side-effects, poor compliance, poor absorption, slow effect, and low efficacy.

 

Intramuscular iron is relatively slow and requires multiple injections (typically in the buttock) over a period of time and frequently causes pain and discomfort as well as permanent stains on the overlying skin.

 

However, providing iron by infusion allows for rapid restoration of the body’s healthy iron levels with relatively few side effects.

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Medication is proven and can be administered in as little as 15 minutes, to a limit of 1,000mg per week. It can also be given during pregnancy, after the first trimester.

 

Depending on your iron requirements, you may require two infusions to fully restore your iron levels.