Iron is an essential mineral your body needs to make healthy red blood cells. When iron
levels are too low, it can cause anemia, fatigue, shortness of breath, brain fog, and reduced
quality of life.
IV (intravenous) iron therapy delivers iron directly into your bloodstream through a small
vein in your arm. This allows for faster absorption and more effective replenishment
compared to oral iron supplements, which can sometimes cause stomach upset or take
months to restore iron levels.
Who Might Benefit From IV Iron?
IV iron is often recommended for patients who:
- Have low iron or iron deficiency anemia confirmed by bloodwork
- Cannot tolerate oral iron due to side effects (constipation, nausea, abdominal pain)
- Have not seen improvement with oral iron therapy
- Have conditions that reduce iron absorption (e.g., celiac disease, inflammatory bowel
disease, gastric bypass surgery) - Need iron replenishment more quickly (e.g., before surgery, during pregnancy, or
with severe anemia)
Process to Get an IV Iron Infusion
Step One: Bloodwork Requirement
If you have not completed bloodwork within the past three months, please contact our
office at 519-573-6700 or [email protected] to request a lab requisition before
booking with SriDevi Emmadi, our Nurse Practitioner.
If you do have recent bloodwork, please email it to [email protected] to ensure
all required tests have been completed.
Step Two: Book your Virtual Nurse Practitioner IV Iron Infusion Consult
Cost with Nurse Practitioner Sri: $150
This includes:
- Bloodwork requisition (if needed)
- Review of bloodwork during appointment to determine eligibility for IV iron infusion
- Referral for the infusion procedure
- Prescription for iron (to be filled at your pharmacy)
- Follow-up bloodwork 4–6 weeks after your infusion
Step Three: After your consult we will contact you to book your IV Iron Infusion
IV Iron Infusion Fee: $175 (paid separately from the Nurse Practitioner consult)
Step Four: Pick up your iron from the pharmacy prior to your infusion – you need to bring it with you
Iron Medication: The iron must be picked up and paid for at your pharmacy. Out-of-pocket
cost typically ranges from $225–$675, depending on dosage and the type of iron prescribed.
If you have a drug plan, the cost may be partially or fully covered.
Step Five: Get your IV Iron Infusion
During the infusion a small IV line will be placed in your arm. The iron will be infused slowly
over 30–90 minutes, depending on the type and dose of iron used. You will be monitored
throughout for comfort and safety.
After the infusion most people can return to normal activities immediately after. You may
feel mild fatigue or achiness for a day or two.
How to Prepare for your IV Iron Infusion
- Eat a light meal and stay hydrated.
- Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up.
- Bring something to read or listen to, as the infusion may take up to 90 minutes.
- Arrange transportation if you are concerned about feeling tired afterward (not
usually necessary, but optional).
After Your Appointment
- You can resume normal activities unless otherwise advised.
- Drink plenty of water to support your body.
- Watch for any unusual symptoms such as rash, shortness of breath, or swelling and contact the clinic if these occur.
Possible Side Effects & Risks
Most patients tolerate IV iron very well. However, as with any medical treatment, there are
possible risks:
- Temporary metallic taste, headache, flushing, or dizziness during infusion
- Muscle or joint aches within 24–48 hours
- Mild bruising or discomfort at the IV site
- Rare but serious allergic or infusion reactions (itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) – your healthcare team is trained and equipped to manage this immediately
Step Six: 4 – 6 weeks after your infusion repeat your bloodwork
After your IV Iron infusion is complete, we will provide you with a requisition to repeat your
bloodwork. We will reach out if further follow-up is needed. Most patients need only one
infusion, while others may need a series of treatments depending on their iron stores and
underlying condition.
IV Iron Infusions are NOT suitable for individuals who:
- Are in the first trimester of pregnancy
- Have a known allergy to IV iron preparations
- Have iron overload disorders (e.g., hemochromatosis)
- Are experiencing a severe active infection
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will I feel better?
- Some people notice improvements in energy within a week, but full benefits may
take 4–6 weeks.
Will I still need oral iron?
- This depends on your condition. Some patients transition back to oral iron for
maintenance, while others may require periodic IV treatments.
