IV Iron Therapy in Vancouver
Replenish your iron stores efficiently with intravenous iron therapy
IV iron delivers iron directly into the bloodstream and may be recommended when oral iron is ineffective, poorly tolerated, difficult to absorb, or when iron needs to be replenished more quickly.
What is an Iron Infusion?
An iron infusion is a treatment that delivers iron directly into your bloodstream through a small IV. Iron is an essential mineral that helps your body produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
Before Your Infusion
- Medical assessment prior to treatment (screening with Naturopathic Doctor at Integrative)
- Providing us with your blood work (ferritin and hematology). Must be within 3 months of your IV
- Short post-infusion observation period
Uses
When IV Iron May Be Recommended
IV iron may be considered when oral iron supplements have not been effective, cause digestive side effects, are difficult for your body to absorb, or when iron needs to be replenished more quickly.
Before treatment, one of our Naturopathic Doctors will complete a medical assessment and review your recent blood work to determine whether IV iron is appropriate for you.
Ineffective
Oral iron supplements have not been effective
Malabsorption
Your body has difficulty absorbing iron
Rapid Repletion
Your iron levels need to be replenished more quickly
Intolerance
You are unable to tolerate oral iron due to digestive side effects
Safety & Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Dizziness
- Flushing or feeling warm
- Temporary metallic taste in the mouth
- Muscle or joint aches
- Fatigue
- Mild pain, bruising, or irritation at the IV site
Rare Side Effects
Risk of Extravasation and Skin Discoloration:
Intravenous iron infusions carry an uncommon risk of extravasation (leakage of the medication outside the vein). If extravasation occurs, it may cause pain, swelling, and brown or gray-brown discoloration of the skin at or near the infusion site. The discoloration may persist for months or may be permanent. Patients should immediately report any pain, burning, stinging, swelling, or discomfort at the IV site during the infusion so that appropriate measures can be taken.
Other Side Effects:
- Allergic or hypersensitivity reactions
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness
- Significant rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Changes in blood pressure
- Severe dizziness or fainting
How Treatment Works
Your IV Iron Experience
Ingredients
- Monoferric OR Venofer
- Normal Saline
Procedure: Your infusion will be administered by a trained healthcare professional in a comfortable clinical setting.
Duration: 60-90 Minutes
Patient Prep
Preparing for Your Iron Infusion
Before your iron infusion, your Naturopathic Doctor will complete a medical assessment and review your recent ferritin and hematology blood work to help determine whether IV iron therapy is appropriate for you.
One
Arrive Prepared
Please arrive on time, well-hydrated, and ensure you have eaten before your intravenous treatment.
Two
Share Your Medical History
Let your doctor know about any allergies, previous reactions to intravenous treatments, or concerns you may have about your treatment.
Three
After Your Treatment
If your condition persists or worsens following treatment, please consult with your Naturopathic Doctor.
Practitioners
Your Participating Practitioners
Your IV iron treatment begins with careful assessment and is delivered in a comfortable clinical setting, with our healthcare team supporting you throughout the infusion process.
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