Iron Infusion
The most common way to treat iron deficiency is to take iron by mouth as a tablet or liquid. This works well for most people and is usually tried first. Some people may need iron to be given straight into the body through a vein. This is called an intravenous (IV) iron infusion. The iron is given through a needle and dripped (infused) into your vein. Sometimes 2 iron infusions (given at least 1 week apart) are needed to fully top up iron stores. The infusion is made up of iron, not blood.
IV iron may be needed if you:
- Are not able to take iron tablets/liquid
- Are not responding to iron tablets/liquid or not absorbing them
- Need to get iron levels up quickly ie prior to major surgery, late pregnancy or to avoid blood transfusion
- If you have chronic kidney disease or chronic heart failure
Download Specialist Referral Letter