Iron Infusion

Our general practice provides safe and effective iron infusion therapy for patients with medically confirmed iron deficiency, particularly when oral supplements are unsuitable, poorly tolerated, or ineffective. This service is delivered by trained healthcare professionals in a monitored clinical setting to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the procedure.


What is an Iron Infusion?

An iron infusion is a medical procedure that delivers iron directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line. It is commonly used to treat iron-deficiency anaemia, a condition where the body lacks sufficient iron to produce adequate haemoglobin — the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood. When iron levels are low, patients often experience fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and shortness of breath.


Unlike oral iron tablets, which may take months to be absorbed and often cause stomach upset or constipation, an iron infusion allows for faster correction of iron levels and fewer digestive side effects. It provides a more direct and efficient way to replenish the body’s iron stores, often improving energy levels within days to weeks.


Who is Suitable for Iron Infusion?

Iron infusion therapy may be recommended for individuals who have confirmed low iron levels and are unable to maintain or restore their iron balance through diet or oral supplements. Common situations include:

  • Chronic Iron-Deficiency Anaemia: When blood tests confirm low haemoglobin and ferritin levels.
  • Poor Tolerance to Oral Iron: Some patients experience nausea, constipation, or gastrointestinal discomfort from oral supplements.
  • Malabsorption Disorders: Conditions such as coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, or after gastric bypass surgery can reduce iron absorption from food or tablets.
  • Pregnancy: Increased iron demands may lead to anaemia that cannot be corrected through diet alone.
  • Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Long-term blood loss can significantly reduce iron stores.
  • Chronic Medical Conditions: Patients with kidney disease, cancer, or heart failure may require additional iron support.


Before recommending an infusion, your doctor will assess your medical history, review your blood results, and ensure that this treatment is clinically appropriate.


Benefits of Iron Infusion

Iron infusion therapy offers several important benefits, especially for those struggling with symptoms of anaemia or poor tolerance to oral supplements.

  • Rapid Restoration of Iron Levels: Infusions deliver iron directly into the bloodstream for faster absorption and replenishment.
  • Improved Energy and Vitality: Many patients notice a significant reduction in fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
  • Better Oxygen Delivery: By boosting haemoglobin production, infusions improve oxygen transport throughout the body.
  • Reduced Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Bypassing the digestive system avoids the constipation, nausea, and stomach upset often associated with iron tablets.
  • Convenient and Efficient: Most infusions take less than 30 minutes and require minimal downtime.


These benefits make iron infusion therapy an effective and practical solution for many patients with persistent or severe iron deficiency.


Iron Infusion Procedure

Iron infusions are typically performed in the clinic and take about 15 to 30 minutes to complete. The process involves the following steps:

  • Initial Assessment: Before the infusion, a nurse or doctor will record your vital signs — including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels — and review your blood test results.
  • Insertion of IV Cannula: A small needle (cannula) is inserted into a vein, usually in your arm or the back of your hand.
  • Administration of Iron Solution: The iron preparation, most commonly Ferric Carboxymaltose (FerInject), is slowly infused through the IV line. This modern formulation is highly efficient and can deliver a full therapeutic dose in around 15 minutes.
  • Observation and Monitoring: During the infusion, your healthcare team will monitor you for any side effects. Once the infusion is complete, the line is flushed with saline to ensure all the medication has entered your system.
  • Post-Procedure Check: After the infusion, your blood pressure and pulse will be rechecked. Once you are stable, you can usually go home or return to work immediately.


The procedure does not require sedation or anaesthesia, and patients can typically resume normal daily activities straight after the session.


Aftercare and Recovery

Following your iron infusion, you may eat and drink as usual. Most people feel well enough to drive themselves home or go back to work. However, some may experience mild, temporary symptoms, including:

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Metallic taste in the mouth
  • Mild nausea or fatigue
  • Tenderness or bruising at the injection site


These effects usually resolve within 24–48 hours. If you experience any unusual symptoms — such as chest pain, rash, or shortness of breath — you should contact the clinic or seek medical attention immediately.


Your doctor may schedule follow-up blood tests four to six weeks after the infusion to check your haemoglobin and ferritin levels. This ensures your iron stores are replenished and that the treatment has been successful.


Safety and Side Effects

Iron infusions are considered safe and are routinely performed in general practice and hospital settings. While most patients tolerate the treatment well, all medical procedures carry some risks. Possible side effects include:

  • Minor Reactions: Headache, flushing, itching, or mild muscle pain.
  • Local Reactions: Temporary swelling, redness, or discomfort around the injection site.
  • Allergic Reactions: Rarely, some individuals may experience a reaction to the iron preparation, including rash, swelling, or, in very rare cases, anaphylaxis.
  • Low Blood Pressure: Some patients may feel light-headed during or shortly after the infusion.


All infusions are performed under medical supervision, with emergency medications and equipment available if required. Patients are monitored throughout the procedure to ensure safety and early management of any reaction.


How Iron Infusion Differs from Oral Iron

While oral iron tablets are usually the first-line treatment for iron deficiency, they can take months to show results and often cause uncomfortable side effects. In contrast:

  • Infusions bypass the digestive tract, providing faster absorption.
  • A single infusion can deliver the same amount of iron as several months of tablets.
  • Patients typically feel better within a few days to weeks rather than months.
  • There are no dietary restrictions or interference with other medications.


For these reasons, iron infusions are often the preferred choice for patients who need quick correction of anaemia or cannot tolerate oral forms of iron.


Results and Follow-Up

Most patients begin to notice improved energy and overall wellbeing within 1–2 weeks of their infusion, though full benefits may take up to 4–6 weeks as haemoglobin levels gradually increase. A follow-up blood test will confirm whether iron levels have normalised or if additional treatment is needed.


Your doctor may recommend dietary advice or ongoing monitoring to prevent recurrence, especially if your iron loss is due to chronic conditions or ongoing bleeding.


Iron Infusion Cost and Billing Information

Please note that while your initial consultation may be bulk-billed, the iron infusion procedure itself may attract a small private fee that is not covered by Medicare. The fee covers:

  • The iron medication (FerInject or equivalent)
  • Medical supervision and nursing support
  • Use of the clinical facilities and consumables


Patients with private health insurance may be eligible for partial rebates depending on their policy coverage. We recommend speaking with our reception team before booking to confirm fees and available options.