What should I do on the day of the appointment?
- Have your breakfast or lunch. You don’t need to fast for an iron infusion.
- Take all your normal medications, however, please stop taking any iron supplements at least 7 days before your infusion.
- Please drink 2-3 glasses of water prior to your appointment. This will make it easier to find your vein for the infusion.
The infusion procedure
- A tube (cannula) will be put into your arm to enable the iron solution to be given. At the WA Iron Centre we use advanced imaging technology to help us accurately identify your vein.
- Our nurse will take regular observations prior to, and throughout the infusion.
- The iron infusion will take 15 minutes (Ferric Carboxymaltose only). Please allow an hour for your appointment which includes pre and post infusion observation.
- If a suitable vein cannot be found the infusion may be rescheduled.
Side effects and symptoms
If ANY side effects are experienced during or following the infusion, please inform the nurse.
Common symptoms that may be experienced on and off for up to 7 days:
- Temporary changes in taste (e.g. metallic)
- Headache, feeling sick or vomiting
- Muscle and joint pain
- Itchiness, rash
- Dizziness
Uncommon symptoms that may be experienced:
- Burning, swelling and/or discolouration at injection site
- Permanent skin discolouration at the injection site
- Shortness of breath
Note: severe side effects are rare. You will be closely monitored by the nurse during the infusion of iron.
Following the infusion
- After your infusion, you will be required to wait for 30 minutes for observation.
- The iron will take a few weeks to have its full effect and your doctor will check your blood iron levels 6 weeks after your infusion.
- Please check with your GP before re-starting any oral iron tablets.
- If you experience any side effects that are worrying you or interfering with your daily activities, please contact our nurse.