IRON INFUSIONS
Fast, effective relief from iron deficiency - now available at Mona Vale Doctors
Mona Vale Doctors now offers Ferinject iron infusions on-site. This treatment delivers iron directly into your bloodstream, helping restore iron levels quickly and effectively - especially when oral supplements aren’t suitable or effective.
Why consider an iron infusion?
Iron infusions may be recommended if you:
Have iron deficiency or iron-deficiency anaemia
Feel tired, foggy, or short of breath due to low iron
Can’t tolerate iron tablets or they haven’t helped
Have a condition that affects iron absorption (e.g., coeliac disease, Crohn’s, or after gastric surgery)
Have chronic illnesses like heart or kidney disease
Need a quick boost in iron - such as during late pregnancy
By bypassing the digestive system, iron infusions offer a faster and more comfortable way to replenish iron stores - often with noticeable improvements in energy and wellbeing within days to weeks.
What to Expect
Your iron infusion will be administered by experienced healthcare professionals in a comfortable and supportive setting.
1. CONSULTATION
Your iron infusion journey begins with a thorough consultation with one of our doctors. During this appointment, we’ll:
Review your symptoms and medical history
Assess your suitability for Ferinject
Discuss any pre-existing conditions or medications
Answer any questions or concerns you may have
This ensures your treatment is tailored to your individual needs.
2. infusion
Please allow 1 hour for your appointment. Please reschedule the appointment if you are unwell (fever, cold/flu, or gastro symptoms).
Bring your Ferinject vials (store at room temperature) to your appointment.
Drink plenty of water beforehand (unless you are on fluid restriction for heart failure).
No fasting is required - continue taking your regular medications.
A cannula will be inserted into your arm, and the infusion will be given over 15 minutes.
You’ll be monitored during and for 30 minutes after the infusion.
Important: You will be asked to keep your arm still during the infusion to prevent iron leakage, which can cause permanent skin staining.
3. AFTER YOUR INFUSION
You can drive home and resume normal activities.
Mild symptoms like tiredness, headache, or joint aches may occur within 1–2 days and usually resolve quickly.
Please check your iron levels 4–6 weeks after treatment.
We Welcome External Referrals for Iron Infusions
We welcome outside referrals for iron infusions. You do not need to be a patient at Mona Vale Doctors.
The infusion will be with Dr Michelle Penm.
1.
Get a Referral From Your GP
See your usual GP.
If they feel you would benefit from an iron infusion, they will need to complete our referral form and email or fax it to us.
2.
Our Doctor Reviews Your Referral
Dr Michelle Penm will review the referral.
If she determines that an iron infusion is suitable for you, our reception team will contact you to book your appointment.
3.
Prepare for Your Appointment
Before your appointment, please:
Read the information sheet, Consumer Medicine Information, and consent form.
Contact us if you have any questions.
Purchase your Ferinject from your local chemist.
Your iron infusion will take place at Mona Vale Doctors.
Please:
Allow 1 hour for the appointment. Do not attend the appointment if you are unwell (fever, cold/flu, or gastro symptoms). Please ring to reschedule the appointment.
Drink plenty of water beforehand (unless you are on fluid restriction for heart failure)
No fasting is required - continue to take your regular medications.
Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for 24 hours after the infusion.
Remember to bring:
Your Ferinject vials
The unsigned consent form
4.
Attend Your Iron Infusion
5.
Follow‑Up Blood Test
Have a blood test 4–6 weeks after your infusion to check your iron levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
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An iron infusion is a procedure where iron is delivered directly into your bloodstream via an intravenous (IV) drip. This method allows for faster and more effective replenishment of iron levels compared to oral supplements.
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Iron infusions are recommended when:
Oral iron causes side effects (e.g., nausea, constipation)
You have difficulty absorbing iron due to gut conditions or surgery
You need a rapid increase in iron levels (e.g., before surgery or during pregnancy)
Oral iron hasn’t improved your iron levels despite regular use
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At Mona Vale Doctors, we use Ferinject® (ferric carboxymaltose), a modern IV iron formulation known for its safety and ability to deliver larger doses in a short time.
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No. We welcome external referrals, and your own GP can refer you directly for an iron infusion with Dr Michelle Penm.
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The infusion itself takes around 15 minutes, but you should allow up to 1 hour for the entire appointment, including preparation and post-infusion monitoring.
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No fasting is required. You can continue taking your regular medications.
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Most patients tolerate iron infusions well. Less serious side effects include:
Headache, dizziness
Nausea or metallic taste
Injection site reactions (e.g., redness or swelling)
Mild fever or joint aches
Skin staining if iron leaks outside the vein
Rare but serious side effects include:
Allergic reactions (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath)
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Yes, if iron leaks outside the vein during infusion, it can cause permanent brown staining. This is why it’s important to keep your arm still and notify staff immediately if you feel pain or swelling.
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Yes. Most patients can resume normal activities, including driving, immediately after the procedure. We advise you avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 24 hours after the infusion.
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Many patients report improved energy and reduced symptoms within days to weeks. A follow-up blood test is recommended 4–6 weeks after the infusion to check iron levels.
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Ferinject may be used during pregnancy (after 16 weeks) and breastfeeding if clinically necessary. Your doctor will assess the risks and benefits based on your individual situation.
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At Mona Vale Doctors, we can give iron infusions to adolescents 14 years old and older.
Is Iron Infusion Right for You?
If you’re experiencing persistent fatigue, low iron levels, or have been diagnosed with iron-deficiency anaemia, speak with one of our GPs to see if an iron infusion is suitable for you.
We’ll ensure the safest and most effective approach to restoring your health.
Book Your Iron Infusion Consultation Today
Experience renewed energy and improved wellbeing - book your consultation at Mona Vale Doctors and take the next step toward feeling your best.