FAQs - Iron Infusion
What are the Symptoms of iron deficiency?
o General fatigue
o Weakness
o Pale skin
o Shortness of breath
o Dizziness
o A tingling or crawling feeling in the legs
o Tongue swelling or soreness
o Cold hands and feet
o Fast or irregular heartbeat
o Brittle nails
o Headaches
What is iron infusion (ferinject)?
Iron Infusion uses a special form of iron given via an intravenous cannula directly into your vein in a solution so that it is directly absorbed into your body replenishing iron stores which are essential for the production of haemoglobin.
Why has iron infusion been recommended for me?
Iron infusion is recommended as a treatment for iron deficiency where oral intake (diet and/or iron tablets/supplements) have failed to help, or where iron tablets are not tolerated (e.g. because of nausea or constipation) or where a rapid increase in iron stores is required (e.g. prior to some surgical operations)
What do I need to do on the day of the iron infusion?
There is no special preparation needed for an iron infusion.
On the day you can
· eat your breakfast and lunch as normal, as there is no need to fast for an iron infusion
· take your regular medications
· be prepared to have a small IV drip put in your arm or hand
· drink plenty of water, no coffee, tea or caffeine drinks
· we recommend you take an antihistamine (such as Zyrtec or Telfast) before you leave home for your appointment
· in case you have an adverse reaction, inform your doctor or nurse immediately
Are there any side effects from iron infusion?
Side effects and severe reactions are very rare, but you should be aware of what they are:
The most common side effects are:
Headache, dizziness, flushing, nausea
Serious allergic reactions are rare (<1:1000).
If the medicine leaks outside the vein, it can cause a stain, similar in appearance to a bruise, while not harmful, this may be permanent.
What is the process?
You will have the cannula inserted into your arm and the injection started. The injection itself should take approximately 20-30 minutes to complete.
How long does it take?
You need to allow over 60-90 minutes for the entire process, including 15-20 minutes with the medical staff, 30 minutes for the infusion and 30 minutes of waiting/observation after the infusion.
Where do I get the ferinject (iron infusion medicine)?
Ferinject is the most commonly used iron infusion medicine and is ready available on prescription from a pharmacy.
When can I go home?
Once you have waited for 30 minutes after the infusion, you may go home, providing you are feeling well.
How do I feel afterwards?
Most people feel fine as usual, Some people feel a little tired and the urine will be a darker colour as approx 5% of the iron is excreted through the kidneys the day after the infusion. You should be able to drive home, avoiding heavy lifting in the arm you just had infusion.
How long does it take for my symptoms to improve?
Most people notice any symptoms such as tiredness, shortness of breath and dizziness get better within a few days although the full effect may not be for several weeks.
Should I continue to take my iron tablets?
They are often not needed after iron infusion. Iron tablets should not be taken for at least one week after the injection as body will stop absorb iron tablets, You should check with your doctor.
When should I have follow up testing?
You should have blood test 2-4 weeks afterwards to make sure if worked. A further blood test to check the haemoglobin and ferritin (iron) levels is recommended in 3-6 months time
How long will the effects of the iron infusion last?
This depends upon the reason for the iron deficiency (is it due to factors such as low dietary intake, conditions such as coeliac disease, excessive blood loss e.g. via heavy periods, kidney disease or a combination of these?) We anticipate the effect will last for months to years, however, to see how it works for you, please don’t forget to have the follow up blood tests.