Iron deficiency (ID) occurs when absorption of dietary iron is not sufficient to cover the loss of iron and the body’s iron requirements. The average person has 3,000-4,000mg of iron in the body. Every day, 1-2mg is lost and 1-2mg is absorbed and utilised. Every 1ml of blood contains 0.5mg of iron and excess blood loss is the key cause of the iron deficiency. If iron deficiency is not treated, it may lead to impaired quality of life, a weakened immune system, and ultimately result in anaemia.
Serum ferritin is one of the most reliable markers for iron deficiency. A simple Iron Profile blood test will let you know if your iron levels are healthy within a week.
The side effects of IV iron are usually minimal, but may include the following:
You may need one to three sessions of iron infusions, which are usually given about one week apart. The dosage and frequency of iron infusion will depend on which intravenous iron product your doctor prescribed and on the severity of your anemia.
The decision to use oral or intravenous (IV) iron can be influenced by a number of variables, including the severity of the patient’s condition, the cost and accessibility of various iron replacement products, and the patient’s tolerance of oral iron preparations.
Note: A session of IV iron equivalent to 9 months of Oral iron supplements provides rapid correction of iron deficiency and/or anaemia with symptomatic relief in a matter of weeks.
Iron infusions start to kick in within about a week. Haemoglobin levels should go up within 2 to 3 weeks. To compare, oral iron can take 3 to 6 months to treat IDA.
Yes. A small IV line is inserted into your vein, and iron is slowly infused over 30–90 minutes, depending on the dose. Most patients find it comfortable and relaxing, and the treatment is done in a calm, clinical environment under professional supervision. Mild side effects like a metallic taste or warmth may occur briefly but usually resolve quickly.
Yes. Iron infusion is a clinically established treatment and is widely used for those who are unable to absorb or tolerate oral iron supplements. At Zen Clinic, your session is performed using pharmaceutical-grade iron in a sterile setting, with monitoring throughout to ensure maximum safety and efficacy.
After the infusion, you can return to your normal activities straight away. Most people are able to drive themselves home. You can even go back to work after your infusion if you feel up to it. You may have some side effects right after the procedure.
