Feeling tired, weak, short of breath, or simply not like yourself can sometimes be associated with low iron levels. For some people, oral iron supplements are enough to restore iron stores. For others, oral iron may not be well tolerated, adequately absorbed, or effective enough. In these situations, a healthcare provider may recommend an iron infusion.

What Is an Iron Infusion?

An iron infusion delivers iron directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line. Because it does not rely on absorption through the gastrointestinal tract, IV iron can be an option for patients who cannot tolerate oral iron, have difficulty absorbing it, or require iron replacement as determined by their healthcare provider.

Iron plays an essential role in producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. When iron stores become depleted, people may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, headaches, dizziness, reduced exercise tolerance, or shortness of breath.

Who Might Be Recommended an Iron Infusion?

Your healthcare provider may consider IV iron when bloodwork demonstrates iron deficiency and oral supplementation is not appropriate or has not been effective. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including heavy menstrual bleeding, gastrointestinal conditions affecting absorption, pregnancy or postpartum iron deficiency, chronic blood loss, or other medical circumstances.

A ferritin result is only one part of the picture. Your healthcare provider may also review your hemoglobin, transferrin saturation and other laboratory results, symptoms, medical history, and the possible reason your iron stores are low.

Why Do We Require a Prescription?

At Nutrient Drip, iron infusions require a prescription from your physician or authorized healthcare provider.

We believe strongly in continuity of care. Iron deficiency can have an underlying cause, and replacing iron is only one part of appropriate medical management. Your primary healthcare provider is in the best position to review your bloodwork, determine whether IV iron is appropriate, investigate why your iron is low when necessary, and arrange follow-up testing.

Once you have your prescription, our nursing team can provide your prescribed iron infusion in the comfort and convenience of your own home.

What Can You Expect During Your Infusion?

Before beginning, your nurse will review your health history, prescription, allergies, and relevant information. Baseline vital signs are obtained, and an IV is started.

Your prescribed iron medication is then prepared and administered intravenously according to the appropriate protocol. You will be monitored throughout your infusion and for a period afterward.

Most people tolerate IV iron well; however, side effects and infusion reactions can occur. These can range from mild symptoms to, rarely, serious hypersensitivity reactions. This is why appropriate screening, monitoring, and access to emergency medications and equipment are important whenever IV iron is administered.

Iron Infusions — Without the Clinic Waiting Room

One of the unique benefits of Nutrient Drip is that we reconstitute and deliver your infusion in your home.

Instead of spending your infusion sitting in a busy clinic, you can receive it in the comfort and privacy of your own home while being cared for by an experienced nurse.

Nutrient Drip is nurse-led and physician-directed, with a focus on professional, individualized care and patient safety.

What Happens After an Iron Infusion?

Your healthcare provider will determine when repeat bloodwork is appropriate and whether additional treatment is required. Iron levels do not need to be checked immediately after an infusion, as your body needs time to utilize and redistribute the administered iron.

It is also important to remember that an iron infusion does not replace appropriate investigation into the reason for iron deficiency, particularly when iron levels repeatedly decline.

Think You May Need an Iron Infusion?

If you’ve been told your iron is low or your healthcare provider has recommended IV iron, Nutrient Drip can help make the infusion process convenient and comfortable.

A prescription is required for all iron infusions.

Contact Nutrient Drip to learn more about our mobile iron infusion service or to arrange your appointment.

This information is provided for general educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical advice. Speak with your physician or healthcare provider about whether IV iron is appropriate for you.