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Iron Infusions
We provide iron infusions under expert supervision, ensuring safe and comfortable care.
Treatment options.
Dietary iron
Iron is not a very bio-available mineral. This means that it’s not easily absorbed by the body. In fact, at its best bio-availability, we only ever absorb up to 25% of the iron that actually goes in our mouths.
The Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) for iron is 8mg for men and 18mg for women of childbearing age (or who are menstruating).
If you’re pregnant, this recommendation increases to 27mg per day. The RDI takes into account the fact that only a small amount of the iron we eat is actually absorbed by the body, so don’t try to take in more than this unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
The iron from our diets comes in several forms known as heme and non-heme.
Heme iron comes from animal food sources, such as beef, pork, lamb, seafood, kangaroo, other game and poultry. The iron in these foods is present as haemoglobin and myoglobin, hence the name ‘heme iron’.
Non-heme iron is the form of iron that comes from all other food sources. Plant-based sources, such as spinach, dark green leafy vegetables, kidney beans, other legumes and sesame seeds, are non-heme sources of iron.
Other non-heme sources are foods that have been enriched or fortified with iron, such as breakfast cereals and drink bases. The iron from non-heme sources is less bio-available. This means that due to a variety of different factors, the iron in these foods is not easily absorbed by the body.
Oral Iron
Most patients with uncomplicated iron deficiency anaemia may receive a trial of oral replacement therapy, as these products tend to be relatively inexpensive and easy to administer.
Oral iron preparations are available in both ferrous and ferric states. Ferrous salts are preferred as they are absorbed more readily.Therapeutic doses of iron will slowly raise haemoglobin concentrations and should increase haemoglobin levels by 10 g/L in 2 - 3 weeks.
Treatment of iron deficiency anaemia in adults reports that haemoglobin levels should return to normal by six to eight weeks.
A guide to taking oral iron tablets by Blood Safe SA Health outlines general information for patients, families and carers about oral iron therapy.
Comparative charts on oral iron preparations covering several different brand names and formulas, including the amount of elemental iron in each tablet, available in Australia can be found at:
Iron Infusion
While oral iron remains the cornerstone of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) therapy, some patients require intravenous (IV) iron therapy.
IV iron is becoming a more common treatment as the newer preparations have improved safety profiles.
Benefits of Iron Infusion -
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Fast and Effective Absorption
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Increased Energy Levels
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Improved Oxygen Transport
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Enhanced Cognitive Function
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Correction of Iron-Deficiency Anemia
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Alleviation of Restless Legs Syndrome
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Improved Exercise Tolerance
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Hair and Nail Health
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Enhanced Immune Function
What is iron deficiency?
Iron deficiency is a condition in which the body lacks enough iron to produce sufficient healthy red blood cells. Iron is essential for making hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
When iron levels are too low, it can lead to iron deficiency anemia, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
This condition can result from insufficient dietary intake, poor absorption, blood loss (such as from heavy periods or internal bleeding), or increased iron needs (e.g., during pregnancy).
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency
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Fatigue, Difficulty Concentrating
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Dizziness, Shortness of Breath
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Headaches
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Cold Hands and Feet, Pale Skin
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Brittle Nails
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Restless Legs Syndrome
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Heart Palpitations
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Unusual Cravings
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Inflamed Tongue
How to diagnose?
Iron deficiency anaemia may be effectively diagnosed in most cases by full blood examination and serum ferritin levels.
By definition ferritin less than 30 is iron deficiency. In specific group of population with heart failure, inflammatory policies, chronic kidney disease etc ferritin less than 100 is considered as iron deficiency.
Iron Infusions
At Classicway Family Practice, we provide iron infusion service under the careful supervision of experienced doctors and nurses.
Our dedicated healthcare team is committed to offering you high-quality care in a comfortable and supportive environment.
Our doctors and nurses have extensive experience in administering iron infusions and are trained to monitor your progress during the procedure. They will guide you through each step, ensuring that the treatment is safe and effective.
please see the information below, before you make an appointment.
How to book
Please call the reception to make initial appointment with the doctor [or] book online – iron infusion initial consultation.
During this consultation the doctor will discuss about symptoms of iron deficiency and organise relevant bloods.
After the results are available, iron infusion can be organised if needed.
If you already had bloods done in a different place, please forward the bloods to reception email and book a telephone consultation with the doctor, to discuss Iron infusion.
How much does it cost
Currently Iron infusion is not completely subsidised by Medicare.
Due the additional costs of treatment room usage, equipment used for an infusion, it attracts out of pocket fee.
Our current out-of-pocket fee is $125.
Iron Infusion Information for Patients
What is an Iron Infusion?
An iron infusion is a medical treatment used to increase iron levels in your body. This treatment involves the administration of iron directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line.
It is typically recommended for individuals who are unable to take oral iron supplements effectively or have severe iron deficiency.
Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body. Low iron levels can lead to anemia, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Why Would You Need an Iron Infusion?
Iron infusions may be recommended if you:
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Have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia.
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Cannot tolerate or absorb iron from oral supplements.
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Have ongoing blood loss (e.g., heavy menstrual bleeding or gastrointestinal bleeding).
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Have certain medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, that interfere with iron absorption.
Your healthcare provider at Classicway Family Practice will assess your individual needs and determine if an iron infusion is the most suitable treatment option for you.
What to Expect During an Iron Infusion
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Preparation:
Before the procedure, a nurse will explain the procedure and gain consent.
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Procedure:
The iron will be delivered through an intravenous (IV) line. The process may take anywhere from 20-30 minutes, depending on the type of iron infusion you are receiving. The IV will be inserted into your arm, and you will be closely monitored during the infusion.
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Post-Treatment Care:
After the infusion, you may be asked to remain in the clinic for a short period to monitor for any allergic reactions or side effects. Most patients are able to resume normal activities shortly after the infusion.
Common Side Effects
Some patients may experience mild side effects, such as:
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A metallic taste in the mouth.
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Temporary swelling or discomfort at the IV site.
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Headache or dizziness.
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Nausea or abdominal discomfort.
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Muscle cramps or joint pain.
These side effects are usually temporary and resolve after the infusion is complete.
Important Considerations
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Allergic Reactions: Rarely, patients may experience an allergic reaction, including life threatening anaphylactic reactions. Signs of a reaction can include itching, rash, or difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, inform your healthcare provider immediately.
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Follow-Up: It’s important to have follow-up appointments to monitor your iron levels and ensure that the infusion has been effective in improving your condition.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information, please review the following patient leaflets:
If you have any questions or concerns regarding iron infusion, please don’t hesitate to contact Classicway Family Practice. We are here to support you through your treatment journey.
