What happens in an IV iron session?

Before the session

For IV iron at Haemcare, you first submit a request. The doctor reviews it and decides whether treatment suits you before any payment is requested. The published fee covers administration only. Medicines and any other separately agreed charges are discussed with the clinic.

Before you attend, the team may ask about:

• your recent blood tests,
• allergies and previous reactions to medicines or infusions,
• other illnesses, pregnancy or breastfeeding,
• all the medicines you take.

Eat and drink normally unless you are told otherwise, and bring your reports and medicine list.

During the session

1. Staff check your details and, usually, your pulse and blood pressure.
2. A thin tube (a cannula) is placed in a vein, most often in the arm.
3. The iron solution is given through a drip over a period set by the doctor.
4. Staff watch you during the infusion and ask how you feel.

Tell the team at once if you feel itchy, flushed, dizzy, short of breath, or have chest tightness, back pain or any pain at the drip site.

After the session

You may be observed for a short time before going home. Some people feel tired or have a metallic taste, headache or mild aches for a short while. Staff will explain what to watch for and who to contact.

Follow-up

Blood tests are usually repeated after some weeks to check that treatment is working. The doctor will tell you when. If anaemia keeps returning, the underlying cause still needs to be found.

Requesting a session

IV iron is a treatment request that the doctor must approve. You can read about the process on the IV iron replacement page.

Frequently asked questions