Iron is one of the minerals found in the human body. If your body does not have enough iron, it cannot produce hemoglobin, which can lead to anemia. One way to treat anemia is through intravenous iron, also known as an iron infusion. This involves delivering iron directly into a vein through a needle, which helps increase iron and hemoglobin levels in the body.
Iron injection is an iron replacement medicine. It is used to treat a type of anemia in which you have too few red blood cells because your body has too little iron (iron-deficiency anemia). Iron is essential for making red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body.
Iron injection is administered by your doctor or nurse through a slow infusion (drip). Your doctor will determine the dose you need and how many injections you should receive to treat your anemia. It is also helpful to eat a balanced diet that contains sufficient iron. Good sources of iron include lentils, green leafy vegetables such as spinach, beans, eggs, dried fruits, and meat.
What is an iron infusion?
An iron infusion is a treatment in which iron is given directly into a vein through an intravenous (IV) drip. It helps replenish the body’s iron levels and increase hemoglobin levels, particularly when iron tablets are not effective, cannot be tolerated, or when a rapid increase in iron levels is needed.
If your body does not have enough iron, it cannot produce sufficient hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein that helps your blood carry oxygen throughout the body. A lack of iron can lead to anemia, known as iron-deficiency anemia, which is the most common type of anemia.
How common are iron infusions?
Taking iron through an injection is not as common as taking iron by mouth. Healthcare providers usually prescribe oral iron supplements first. These are effective for many people, but some may need to receive iron through an IV if their iron levels are very low.
Why is an iron infusion given?
People who have difficulty taking iron by mouth are usually given an intravenous (IV) iron infusion. This includes people who:
- People who are experiencing bleeding in their digestive tract (intestines) and need to replenish their iron levels quickly. (Your body receives iron given through an IV more quickly than iron taken by mouth.
- People who have inflammatory bowel disease (conditions affecting the intestines that can cause pain, diarrhea, and weight loss) and cannot take iron by mouth because it upsets their digestive system.
- People who are on dialysis and often lose blood during the dialysis process. In addition, they are usually taking erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) and may need additional iron.
- If you have iron deficiency anemia and are scheduled to undergo surgery within the next two months that is expected to involve significant blood loss (>500 mL), you may need to replenish your iron levels quickly.
What are the side effects of an iron infusion?
The side effects of an iron infusion are usually minimal, but they may include the following:
- Swelling or puffiness in the face, arms, hands, legs, or feet.
- Dizziness, fainting, or feeling lightheaded when suddenly standing up from a lying or sitting position.
- Stomach pain, including nausea, cramps, or diarrhea.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Constipation (difficulty passing stools).
- Headache.
- Joint or muscle pain.
- Skin problems, including rashes.
- Chest pain.
- Low blood pressure.
- Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that may cause difficulty breathing, itching, or a rash over the body).
