Summary
- Our IV iron therapy delivers iron directly into the bloodstream, without passing through the digestive system for rapid absorption.
- Ideal when oral supplements fail or when anaemia needs quick correction—such as in IBD, coeliac disease, heavy bleeding, pregnancy or dialysis.
- Sessions typically last 15–30 minutes and may require one or a few treatments to replenish iron stores.
- Benefits include faster restoration of haemoglobin, improved energy and fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared with oral iron.
- Side effects are generally mild but can include headache, nausea and dizziness; medical supervision ensures safety.
Iron deficiency anemia is when the body doesn’t have enough iron to make haemoglobin, the protein that allows red blood cells to carry oxygen. When haemoglobin drops, people often experience:
- fatigue and low energy
- dizziness or light-headedness
- shortness of breath
- reduced ability to perform daily activities
If left untreated, low iron can lead to more serious problems such as irregular heartbeat, complications in pregnancy, or premature birth.
Oral iron supplements are usually the first treatment, but they can take weeks to correct levels and often cause digestive discomfort. When fast correction is needed, or when oral iron isn’t tolerated, IV iron therapy (iron infusion) becomes a more effective option.
Understanding Iron Deficiency and IV Therapy
Your body’s iron stores can drop because of blood loss, a diet low in iron, medicines that interfere with absorption or an increased need for iron during pregnancy. For many people, oral iron supplements correct the deficiency.
However, certain conditions make it difficult to absorb or tolerate iron tablets. For example, inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease or severe gastrointestinal bleeding. In these situations, IV iron therapy may be recommended, which delivers iron directly into your bloodstream through a small catheter. Because the mineral bypasses your digestive tract, it is absorbed faster and causes fewer stomach problems.
How IV Iron Therapy Works
During an IV iron session:
- A nurse cleans the back of your hand or arm.
- A small needle and plastic tube (cannula) are inserted into a vein.
- The cannula connects to a bag containing iron mixed with sterile saline.
- A pump slowly infuses the solution over 15–30 minutes.
- Most treatments deliver around 1,000 mg of iron per session.
Depending on your iron levels and the type of iron used, you may need:
- one infusion, or
- multiple sessions spaced 1–2 weeks apart
After the infusion, you stay for about 30 minutes so staff can monitor for any reaction. Most people return to normal activities right away and notice improvements in energy, breathlessness, and haemoglobin within one to two weeks.
Who Might Benefit from IV Iron Therapy
IV iron therapy is typically considered when:
- Oral iron isn’t tolerated or absorbed. People with inflammatory bowel disease or coeliac disease often cannot absorb enough iron from pills. Tablets may also cause constipation, nausea or bloating.
- Severe or rapidly developing anaemia requires quick correction. This includes patients with heavy menstrual bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding or those scheduled for major surgery within a couple of months.
- Dialysis patients frequently lose blood and may take erythropoietin‑stimulating agents that increase their need for iron.
- People with chronic kidney disease often have anemia because their damaged kidneys produce less erythropoietin, and IV iron can help by directly supplying the iron needed for red blood cell production.
- Pregnancy or postpartum anaemia. Replenishing iron quickly can support maternal health and reduce complications for the baby.
- Heart failure or chronic conditions. People with chronic heart failure or other illnesses may require intravenous iron when oral supplements fail to raise iron levels adequately.
Benefits of IV Iron Therapy
- Rapid replenishment of iron. Infusions raise iron levels faster than tablets because the mineral enters your bloodstream directly. This makes it ideal for severe or urgent anaemia.
- Improved energy and easier breathing. Many of our patients notice increased energy and less shortness of breath within weeks. Restoring iron improves muscle function and oxygen transport.
- Fewer gastrointestinal side effects. Because IV iron bypasses the digestive system, it usually causes fewer stomach issues like constipation or nausea.
- Safe for pregnancy. Modern IV iron formulations are considered safe during pregnancy and can help prevent complications associated with severe anaemia.
- Durable improvement. Depending on the cause of your iron deficiency, the benefits may last several months to a few years. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes or oral supplements afterwards to maintain healthy levels.
Safety and Side Effects
Modern IV iron formulations are made to be safer and better tolerated than older products. Most people experience only mild side effects, such as:
- headache
- dizziness or nausea
- diarrhoea or constipation
- joint or muscle aches
- mild rash or low-grade fever
temporary swelling or tiredness after the infusion
These effects usually resolve quickly.
A serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is possible but very rare with today’s IV iron products. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, rash, or a drop in blood pressure.
To ensure safety, medical staff will:
- monitor you during the infusion
- observe you for a short period afterward
- provide preventive medication if you have a history of allergies
You should always tell your healthcare team about any medical conditions, medications, or past reactions so they can tailor the treatment safely.
What to Expect From Your Session
During the session, you can relax in a comfortable chair while the iron infusion drips into your vein; many people read, listen to music or rest. Afterwards, you’ll remain at our clinic for observation, then you can resume normal activities. It may take multiple sessions to restore your iron levels fully, and we will schedule follow‑up blood tests to measure your progress.
Is IV Iron Therapy Right for You?
If you’re struggling with persistent iron deficiency despite oral supplements or need to correct anaemia quickly, IV iron therapy could be the right option. This treatment is especially helpful when you have conditions that interfere with iron absorption or when pregnancy, surgery or chronic disease increases your iron needs. Consult a healthcare professional to determine the best approach based on your medical history and goals.
How IV One Can Help
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Crohn’s Disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Psoriasis
- Solid tumours and Haematological cancers
Our centre offers:
- Private Infusion Suites
- Strict Infection-control Standards
- Calm, Comfort-focused Spaces
- Outpatient Convenience without the need for overnight stays
For anyone managing a complex chronic illness, we administer evidence-based therapy delivered with compassion, empathy, and ongoing support throughout your treatment journey.
Time to Reclaim Your Energy
At IV One Infusion Centre Riyadh, our medical professionals specialise in personalised IV iron therapy for iron deficiency anaemia. Whether you need a rapid boost before surgery, support during pregnancy or a safe alternative to oral iron, our team tailors each infusion to your unique needs. Contact us today to book a consultation and discover how IV iron therapy can quickly restore your energy and vitality.
