Intravenous Iron Infusions
Intravenous (IV) iron infusions are used to treat iron deficiency anemia. In general, IV iron is used when iron taken by mouth is not working.
Please note: These medications often require authorization from your insurance provider, which may take two or more weeks to obtain.
Once authorization has been obtained, we will schedule an appointment for the infusion in our Day Hospital, located on the third floor of the Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care.
Please plan for at least four hours for your child’s appointment.
What to expect during your child’s IV iron infusion
- You arrive at the Day Hospital on the third floor of the Buerger Center and check in.
- Your child will have an IV placed. Sometimes labs are drawn.
- The pharmacy will begin to prepare the medication for your infusion. Once your infusion is ready, the nurse will obtain your child’s vital signs prior to starting the infusion.
- If your child receives ferric carboxymaltose, the infusion will run over 15 minutes.
- If your child receives iron sucrose, the infusion will run over 30-90 minutes.
- Your child will be monitored closely for signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction throughout the appointment. Their vital signs will be closely monitored throughout the infusion and for 30 minutes after the infusion ends.
- Your child’s hematology team will determine how often your child will need to receive iron infusions and when follow-up labs should be obtained.
- Some side effects of IV iron include increased blood pressure (during the infusion), allergic/anaphylactic reaction, flushing, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting or constipation.
- Repeated doses of ferric carboxymaltose in patients with GI disorders or renal disease is associated with an increased risk for developing a low phosphate level. Your child’s hematology team will monitor if indicated.
- Please notify your care team if you notice any hives, itching, swelling, cough, difficulty breathing, itchy eyes, runny nose or wheezing during your child’s infusion.
For more information
Your child’s hematology team can be reached at 215-590-3437 to answer any questions.