What is intravenous iron therapy?
It is the intravenous of iron given as a drip.a
Who should have Intravenous Iron Thperapy?
- Individuals having low blood cell count ( low Haemoglobin) due to iron deficiency anaemia
- Population aged over 65 year may need it as iron deficiency is more common in this group
- People with kidney failure as they have reduced red cell formation
- If you are on blood thinners tablets or injections
- Problems with iron absorption
- Older population going for major surgery
- Who are intolerant to oral iron supplements
- Disorders associateyd with poor iron absorption
What are the benefits of intravenous iron therapy?
Intravenous iron therapy produces a much faster and higher increase (as compared with oral iron tablets) in red blood cells and hence improves anaemia. It can also be used in conditions where oral iron therapy does not work or is not tolerated.
What intravenous iron preparations are available?
There are 2 intravenous iron infusions available. These include:
CosmoFer: This is mixed with saline and administered over 4 hours as an infusion
MonoFer: This is mixed with saline and administered over half an hour
During the infusion and at least half an hour after the infusion you will be monitored for any adverse effects such as nausea, injection site reactions, flushing, alteration of taste and any symptoms of allergy. Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is rare. If any of the adverse effects are noticed, they will be treated accordingly.
What dose of intravenous iron therapy is used?
The doctor will calculate your dose based on your age, weight and haemoglobin (HB) levels.
How would you know that your iron infusion therapy worked?
There will be an increase your blood haemoglobin and blood iron levels and improvement in iron deficiency symptoms. We recommend testing after 2 to 3 weeks following the treatment.