Iron Infusions for Iron Deficiency
If you’re experiencing fatigue, shortness of breath, or difficulty concentrating, low iron levels could be a contributing factor. At Shire Family Medical, we offer on-site iron infusions as part of our comprehensive approach to managing iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia.
For some patients, oral iron supplements may not be effective or well tolerated. In these cases, an intravenous iron infusion (typically with Ferinject®) may be recommended. The procedure is performed in our practice by a trained GP and nurse, with monitoring throughout for your safety.
When an Iron Infusion May Be Recommended
- Persistent iron deficiency despite oral supplements
- Difficulty tolerating oral iron (e.g. due to nausea or constipation)
- Significant iron loss from heavy periods, surgery, or gastrointestinal conditions
- Pregnancy-related iron deficiency (if deemed appropriate)
We’ll work with you to confirm the cause of your symptoms and discuss whether an iron infusion is clinically appropriate.
Planning Your Iron Infusion Appointment
If your doctor has recommended an iron infusion, a planning consultation will be scheduled first. During this visit, your GP will assess your suitability and, if appropriate, provide a prescription for Ferinject (ferric carboxymaltose). This can be filled at any community pharmacy.
Once you have your Ferinject medication, please contact our reception team to book a 15-minute appointment with one of our GPs who supervise the procedure. On the day of your infusion, please bring the following:
- Your Ferinject medication
- A copy of your recent blood test results
- Your GP referral (if applicable)
The infusion is administered by one of our practice nurses under GP supervision and typically takes 15–20 minutes following your consultation.
Costs
- Ferinject medication (via PBS): approximately $40 for two 500mg vials (10ml total)
- Clinic fee: $185, which includes GP supervision and infusion consumables → A Medicare rebate of $82.90 may apply
After Your Infusion
You will be asked to remain at the clinic for 20–30 minutes after your infusion for observation. Although serious reactions to Ferinject are uncommon, monitoring is a standard precaution with any intravenous medication.
Your doctor will discuss possible side effects at the time of your consultation.
Important Notes
- Pregnant patients: Iron infusions are not administered at our clinic during pregnancy. Please speak to your hospital care team.
- Age restrictions: Iron infusions are provided for patients aged 14 years and over, with an appropriate referral from a GP.
- Follow-up: A follow-up blood test is recommended 2–3 months after your infusion to monitor your response.
Frequently Asked Questions
An iron infusion involves delivering iron directly into the bloodstream through a vein in your arm. This method bypasses the digestive system and allows for faster correction of low iron levels.
The infusion itself usually takes around 15–20 minutes. You’ll be monitored before, during, and after the procedure, so please allow up to an hour for your visit.
Iron infusions are generally well tolerated. Your GP will assess if this treatment is suitable for you and explain potential risks.
Yes. Your GP will usually order a blood test to confirm iron deficiency and determine whether an infusion is the most suitable treatment.
Some patients report changes in energy within days, while for others it may take 1–2 weeks. Your doctor may arrange a follow-up test to check your iron levels and response to treatment.
In most cases, yes. If you feel unwell or dizzy, we may recommend having someone accompany you or waiting until you’re fully recovered before driving.