Iron infusions

Low iron levels are a common cause of fatigue, reduced concentration, shortness of breath and low energy. Iron is essential for producing haemoglobin, which allows red blood cells to carry oxygen around the body.

If your iron levels are significantly low, or if oral iron supplements are not effective or well tolerated, your doctor may recommend an iron infusion. This treatment allows iron to be delivered directly into the bloodstream, helping restore iron levels more quickly than tablets.

Our practice offers iron infusions onsite, administered by our experienced nursing team under GP supervision.


When an Iron Infusion may be recommended

Iron infusions may be appropriate for patients who:

  • Have confirmed iron deficiency or iron deficiency anaemia
  • Have not responded to oral iron supplements
  • Experience side effects from iron tablets such as nausea or constipation
  • Have ongoing iron loss, for example from heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Require faster restoration of iron levels

Your doctor will first determine the cause of your iron deficiency and discuss whether an infusion is the most appropriate treatment.


How the Process Works

Iron infusions are usually arranged over two appointments.


1. Initial Consultation

At your first appointment, your doctor will:

  • Review your symptoms and medical history
  • Assess your recent blood test results
  • Confirm whether an iron infusion is clinically appropriate
  • Provide a prescription for the iron medication (usually Ferinject®)

The medication can be purchased from your local pharmacy.


2. Iron Infusion Appointment

Once you have obtained the medication, you can book an infusion appointment with our practice nurse.

The appointment is typically 45 minutes, with the full visit lasting around one hour, which includes a short monitoring period after the infusion.

During the procedure:

  • A small IV cannula is placed into a vein in your arm
  • The iron medication is infused slowly through the cannula
  • Our nursing team will monitor you throughout the infusion
  • After the infusion, you will remain in the clinic briefly for observation

Most patients tolerate iron infusions well and can return to normal activities shortly afterwards.


3. Follow-Up

Your doctor will usually recommend a repeat blood test 2–3 months after the infusion to check that your iron levels have improved and to determine whether further treatment is required.


Benefits of Iron Infusions

Compared with oral iron tablets, iron infusions may:

  • Restore iron levels more quickly
  • Avoid common gastrointestinal side effects
  • Require fewer treatments
  • Improve symptoms such as fatigue and low energy more rapidly

Some patients may require more than one infusion, depending on their iron levels.


Book an Appointment

If you think low iron levels may be affecting your health, the first step is to book a consultation with one of our doctors. We can arrange the appropriate testing and discuss whether an iron infusion is suitable for you.

Appointments can be booked online via Healthengine or by calling reception.

FAQs ?

  • What is an iron infusion ?

    An iron infusion involves delivering iron directly into the bloodstream through a vein in your arm. This method bypasses the digestive system and allows for faster correction of low iron levels.

  • What happens during your appointment ?

    Infusion therapy involves the administration of iron through a needle or cannula. The cannula is usually inserted into a vein in your hand or arm and is then connected to a sterile bag that contains the medication to be infused. During your infusion our staff will measure and record your vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation. 

  • How long does the infusion take ?

    The iron infusion usually takes around 20-25 minutes. You'll by monitored before, during and after the procedure. Please allow up to 1 hour for your visit.

  • Iron infusions are generally well tolerated. Your GP and Nurse will assess if this treatment is suitable for your and explain potential risks. ?

    No. As a continuing prescribers, Dr Hillier, Dr Pala and Dr Bastawrous can only provide prescriptions as directed by your psychiatrist or paediatrician. Any changes to medication or dosage must be managed by them.

  • Do I need to test before having an iron infusion ? ?

    Yes. Your GP will usually order a blood test to confirm iron deficiency and determine whether an infusion is the most suitable treatment.

  • What to bring?

    It is recommend that you wear comfortable loose-fitting clothes. Your sleeve will need to be pushed well above the elbow. This will allow our staff to more easily insert the cannula and monitor your vital signs. As some intravenous fluids may make you feel cool, it is also suggested that you bring a jacket or cover to keep warm. 

  • How soon will I notice changes after an iron infusion ? ?

    Some patients report changes in energy within days, while for others it may take 1 to 2 weeks. Your GP may arrange a follow up test to check your iron response levels after treatment.

  • Can I drive home afterward ?

    In most cases, yes. If you feel unwell or dizzy, we recommend having someone accompany you or waiting until your're fully recovered before driving. 

  • Can I book an ADHD appointment if I have not been diagnosed yet ?

    • No. This service is for continuing management only. Patients must already have a confirmed ADHD diagnosis from a psychiatrist or paediatrition. New assessments need to be arranged with a specialist.