Preparing for your iron infusion - and what to do afterwards

One of the nicest things about a mobile iron infusion is how little disruption it causes - we come to you, and most appointments are done within 90 minutes including screening and observation. A little preparation still helps the day go smoothly, and knowing what's normal afterwards saves a lot of unnecessary worry.

Before your infusion

• Have recent blood results ready. Your ferritin and haemoglobin results guide the prescribing decision - you can upload them directly when you book, and bloods usually need to be from the last few weeks.
• Eat and drink normally. There's no need to fast - in fact, being well fed and hydrated makes cannulation easier and reduces lightheadedness.
• Wear something with easy arm access - a loose sleeve you can roll up comfortably.
• Tell us everything relevant in screening: previous iron infusions, allergies, pregnancy or breastfeeding, kidney problems, and all medicines you take. None of it is judged; all of it matters for safety.
• Plan a quiet-ish hour. You don't need someone with you, and most people can drive and carry on normally afterwards - but there's no harm in keeping the rest of your day gentle.

On the day

Your paramedic will confirm your screening, check your baseline observations, place a small cannula, and run the infusion - typically over about 15-30 minutes for Ferinject. You'll then be observed for 30 minutes afterwards. Speak up straight away about anything at the drip site: pain, swelling, or a feeling of wetness.

The first couple of days afterwards

• It's common to feel completely normal. Don't be surprised if the main event is... nothing.
• Some people notice mild flu-like symptoms - a low-grade fever or aching joints and muscles - one to two days later. Rest, fluids and time are usually all that's needed.
• A small bruise at the drip site is normal and fades like any other bruise.
• Energy improvements are not instant. Your body uses the iron to build new red blood cells over weeks - most people notice the difference from around two to four weeks onwards.

Follow-up bloods

Your GP or midwife will usually recheck your ferritin and haemoglobin some weeks after the infusion to confirm your levels have responded. If you've had repeated infusions, it's also reasonable to ask about a phosphate check - current Medsafe guidance notes that Ferinject can temporarily lower phosphate levels, particularly with repeat dosing.