Iron Infusions in Naturopathic Medicine: A Modern Tool for Restoring Vitality

As we move through dark and rainy days, our focus turns to improving energy levels. Iron infusions are becoming more widely available and they are often done in an outpatient setting.

Iron infusions are an effective way of improving iron stores without the common side effects of oral iron such as constipation, nausea and upset stomach. If you are considering an iron infusion, talk to your medical provider to determine if this is a suitable treatment approach for you. In the meantime, here are some points to consider:

There are 3 markers used to determine whether or not you are a candidate for an iron infusion.

The first is hemoglobin, which is part of your CBC or complete blood count. Hemoglobin carries oxygen in the blood and in iron deficiency anemia, hemoglobin will be low.

The second marker is ferritin. This is the most common marker patients present with when inquiring about an iron infusion. The is a measure of how much iron is stored in your body. It can be falsely elevated, in fact, if you have inflammation, or very high iron stores, such as in hemochromatosis.

The third is total iron binding capacity. This is how much iron is available for your body to utilize. If these 3 markers are low, an iron infusion may be recommended.

There are some common scenarios where an iron infusion may be ordered:

• Pregnant patients have an increased demand for iron. Low iron is common in pregnancy and an infusion might be recommended to improve energy levels and aid the body in late stages of pregnancy and in postpartum recovery-patients who have issues with malabsorption or cannot tolerate oral supplements.
• Patients on a restricted diet.
• Patients who have heavy menstruation may have difficulty improving iron levels with monthly blood loss. An infusion may help patients to achieve some relief with direct iron absorption.
• Patients may have tried oral supplements and noticed little improvement in iron stores.

If your healthcare practitioner has recommended an iron infusion for you, blood work will be reviewed by one of our practitioners. Blood levels must have been checked within 3 months for the most accurate prescription. If indicated, a medication order will be prescribed and sent to a local pharmacy. Once the medication has been filled and arrives at the clinic, one of our skilled Naturopathic Physicians, Medical Doctor or Registered Nurse may perform the infusion for you.

Dr. Karen Dallas, MDCM, FRCPC, is a hematopathologist and lifestyle medicine physician. She is available for private consultation regarding blood disorders and health concerns in general. Dr. Cathryn Coe, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Physician and owner of Edgemont Naturopathic
Clinic. Both Dr. Dallas and Dr. Coe, ND are happy to discuss with patients whether or not an iron infusion is a suitable treatment for them. Stay tuned for our next article on nutritional deficiencies.

*PLEASE NOTE THE ABOVE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE CONSULT A LICENSED HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE INITIATING AN IRON SUPPLEMENT.