Iron Infusion

Iron infusions deliver iron directly into your bloodstream intravenously, bypassing the digestive system entirely. This makes them a fast and effective treatment for iron deficiency, particularly when oral iron supplements are not tolerated or have not worked well enough. Iron infusions are administered in a hospital, day procedure centre, or infusion suite. If you also require a gastroscopy or colonoscopy, an iron infusion can be administered immediately following the procedure in the recovery area — combining both on the same day.

Who may benefit from an iron infusion?

Iron infusions are suitable for patients who:

• Cannot tolerate oral iron supplements due to side effects such as nausea, constipation, or abdominal pain
• Have not responded adequately to oral iron therapy
• Have severe iron deficiency requiring rapid replenishment
• Have ongoing iron losses from a gastrointestinal cause, such as inflammatory bowel disease or chronic blood loss
• Are preparing for or recovering from surgery or a procedure where optimising iron stores is important

Common causes of iron deficiency

In adults, iron deficiency often has an underlying cause that warrants investigation. Common gastrointestinal causes include coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal blood loss (for example from polyps or bowel cancer), and malabsorption. Your gastroenterologist can assess whether further investigation — such as a gastroscopy or colonoscopy — is appropriate.

What to expect

The infusion is administered through an intravenous cannula, usually inserted into a vein in the arm. The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes. You will be monitored throughout the infusion and for a short observation period afterwards before being discharged. Most patients can return to their normal activities on the same day. Some patients notice an improvement in energy levels within days, though full replenishment of iron stores takes longer.

Referral

A referral from your GP is required for an iron infusion. Recent blood tests including iron studies and a full blood count should accompany the referral.