Iron Infusion
All the doctors at Brindabella Medical Centre provide iron infusion in conjunction with our practice nurses. They will prescribe you with the appropriate dose of Ferinject and will inform you of how frequently this treatment will be required. The entire procedure will take an hour of your time, as this allows us appropriate time to cannulate you, perform the infusion, and then observe you for 30 minutes after completion of the infusion for side effects or allergic reactions. You will be required to fill your Ferinject script at your pharmacy of choice and bring this along to your appointment.
What is the cost of an Iron infusion?
First consultation: New and existing patients will need to have an appointment with one of the doctors who perform iron infusions. This is to discuss the iron infusion process and determine that an iron infusion is the best option for you. Please bring your recent blood test results with you to this appointment. This appointment is charged as per the standard practice fee (time based) and the doctor will issue you with a script for Iron should they think you could benefit from an iron infusion. **You will be required to bring the iron from the chemist with you on the day of the procedure.**
On the day of the procedure there will be a fee of $250 with a Medicare rebate of $42.80.
Iron Infusion Benefits
If your doctor identifies you as having an iron deficiency, an iron infusion is one of the easiest treatments available. The full amount of iron that you need is given intravenously over 30 minutes. No blood or blood products are used.
Tips for comfort
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Have drinking water available.
- Listen to your favourite music on your smartphone.
- Watch a film or TV show on a tablet or smartphone.
- Bring your favourite book or magazine.
Side Effects
Side-effects from iron infusions are uncommon, but there is always a small risk of an adverse reaction like an allergy. The doctors at Brindabella Medical Centre are properly equipped with appropriate drugs and equipment to deal effectively and quickly with an allergy, should it occur. Other side-effects you might experience for up to 2 days after the infusion include:
- Temporary changes in taste (metallic) Headache,
- feeling sick or vomiting Muscle and joint pain
- Shortness of breath
- Itchiness, rash
- Changes to blood pressure or pulse Burning and swelling at injection site
- There is a small, uncommon risk of long-lasting brown discolouration of the skin which can occur due to leakage of the iron at the injection site.
How to Prepare for an Iron Infusion
Your doctor will provide specific instructions for preparing for your first iron infusion treatment. Some basic things you can do to prepare on the day of your infusion include There is no need to fast for an iron infusion, please eat your breakfast or lunch prior to your appointment. Take your regular medications. Please talk to your doctor about the procedure first if you feel nervous about the iron infusion. Your doctor can recommend ways to help you stay comfortable and relaxed during the procedure.
Before you have IV iron –tell your doctor if you:
- Are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Have a history of asthma, eczema or other allergies
- Have had a reaction to any type of iron injection or infusion in the past
- Have a history of high iron levels, haemochromatosis or liver problems
- Are on any medications (including over the counter or herbal supplements