An iron infusion delivers iron directly into your bloodstream through a drip, restoring iron levels far faster than tablets. At Red Hill Family Clinic your GP assesses you, arranges the blood test, and gives the infusion in our treatment room, so patients from Red Hill, Main Ridge, Flinders, Balnarring and Dromana do not need to travel to Frankston or Mornington for it.

Book an assessment Call (03) 5985 6662

Who needs an iron infusion?

People with iron deficiency, with or without anaemia, who cannot take iron tablets, do not absorb them, or need their levels restored quickly. Common causes include heavy periods, pregnancy, bowel conditions, restricted diets and blood loss. Typical signs of low iron are tiredness, breathlessness on exertion, dizziness, pale skin, brittle nails, headaches and restless legs.

How it works

1. GP assessment

Every infusion starts with a GP appointment. Your doctor takes a history, examines you and orders blood tests including iron studies, to confirm the deficiency and look for the cause. Bring any recent results from another doctor.

2. Blood test

Your GP gives you a pathology request to take to a collection centre. Results are back within a few days and your GP will call you or book a follow-up.

3. The infusion

If an infusion is right for you, we book a treatment room appointment. A small cannula is placed in a vein in your arm and the iron runs through over about 15 to 30 minutes, with observation afterwards. Allow about an hour. You can drive home and return to normal activities the same day.

4. Follow-up

A repeat blood test four to eight weeks later confirms your iron levels have recovered, and your GP keeps looking at the underlying cause so the deficiency does not simply come back.

Side effects

Most people have no problems. Some notice a headache, mild nausea, a metallic taste, or aching joints and muscles for a day or two. Rarely, iron leaking near the cannula site can cause a brown skin stain that may be permanent, which is why we monitor the drip closely and ask you to tell us straight away if you feel any stinging. Serious allergic reactions are very uncommon and our team is trained and equipped to manage them.

Cost

The assessment and follow-up appointments are billed as standard consultations, with bulk billing for eligible patients across all our consulting hours. The infusion carries a procedure fee that covers the nurse’s time and the observation period; please ask reception for the current fee and the Medicare rebate that applies.

Common questions

Do I need a referral for an iron infusion?

No. Book an assessment with either of our GPs.

How long does an iron infusion take?

About 15 to 30 minutes for the infusion and up to an hour at the clinic including observation.

How soon will I feel better?

Many people notice more energy within one to two weeks, and iron levels usually peak at around four to six weeks.

Do you do iron infusions at Rye as well?

Yes. Rye Family Clinic offers the same service with on-site pathology, Monday to Friday.