What is an Iron Infusion?
An iron infusion is a medical treatment that delivers iron directly into your bloodstream through an IV (intravenous) line. This method is faster and more effective than oral supplements, especially for those who don’t absorb iron well, have iron-deficiency anemia, or need to increase hemoglobin levels quickly.
At Gravity Health in Vancouver and Whitehorse, Dr. Maximus offers iron infusions as a safe and convenient way to restore iron levels—helping you feel stronger, more energized, and mentally sharper.
Why You Might Need an Iron Infusion
Many people—especially menstruating women, athletes, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic illness—don’t respond to oral iron. That’s where IV iron infusions can make all the difference.
You may benefit from an iron infusion if you’re experiencing:
- Fatigue, brain fog, or weakness
- Shortness of breath or chest discomfort
- Hair loss or cold hands and feet
- Low ferritin or hemoglobin on bloodwork
- Poor exercise performance or dizziness
- Poor response to oral iron or intolerable side effects like constipation or nausea
The Benefits of an Iron Infusion
- Rapid increase in hemoglobin and ferritin levels
- Better tolerated than oral iron (fewer GI side effects)
- Ideal for people with inflammatory bowel disease, celiac, or chronic blood loss
- Often requires just one infusion (Monoferric)
- Improves energy, mental clarity, and exercise tolerance within 3–7 days
Your visit at Gravity Health is designed to be safe, smooth, and comfortable:
- You’ll relax on a recliner in a quiet treatment room.
- A small IV catheter will be inserted into your arm or hand.
- The iron transfusion takes 75 minutes, depending on the product used.
Most patients are able to resume normal activity the same day.
Most people tolerate iron infusions well, but potential side effects include:
- Mild headache or metallic taste
- Muscle or joint pain
- Nausea or lightheadedness
- Temporary low blood pressure
- Rare but serious reactions like anaphylaxis (very uncommon)
If you’re feeling worse after an iron infusion, notify your doctor—we’ll work with you to ensure your safety and comfort.
We use a high-quality IV iron formulations of Monoferric, available through PharmaCare with Special Authority. Most insurance plans cover some or all of the cost.
Pricing Breakdown (Typical):
Monoferric 1,000mg
- Iron: ~$540
- Infusion Fee: $275
Total: ~$800 (often only 1 treatment needed)
Not sure if you’re covered? We’ll help you check eligibility with PharmaCare and your extended benefits provider.
How to Get an Iron Infusion
You have two options:
1. With a Doctor’s Referral
Ask your doctor to fax your ferritin and CBC labs (done within the last 3 months) to our clinic (info@gravityhealthclinics.com). If your ferritin is below 100, you likely qualify for an infusion.
2. Without a Referral
Book a consultation with Dr. Maximus. We’ll order the necessary blood work (about $65 out of pocket) and walk you through next steps.
- No bloodwork? No problem. Book a 15-minute phone call with Dr. Maximus to get started.
- Infusion happens right at Gravity Heath in Vancouver or Whitehorse.
- Covered by many extended health plans.
Frequently asked iron infusion questions
How long does an iron infusion take?
Be prepared to spend up to 90 minutes in the clinic on your first visit. Your initial visit and first infusion(s) will be done more slowly, and once accustomed, any further infusions will be quicker. The infusion itself will take 75 minutes within that time.
Is this covered under extended benefits?
If you have naturopathic coverage, the infusion ($275) may be wholly or partly covered depending on your insurance provider.
If you have drug coverage, the dose (Venofer or Monoferric) may be wholly or partly covered. If covered, we will arrange to have it shipped directly to our clinic. If not covered, we have it in-office, so no need to do anything on your part except show up for your infusion.
Why Infusions vs Oral?
Oral iron is not always tolerated because of side effects and does not have the best compliance rates. It can take 6-12 months to get iron levels up to normal and that’s only if you are able to solve the reason for the deficiency. Chasing optimal iron levels can be very frustrating for a lot of people. Infusions are a safe and effective way to get iron levels up typically with a single infusion for people who aren’t able to effectively take oral iron.
How quickly does IV iron increase hemoglobin?
Most patients see an increase within 1–2 weeks, though full red cell production may take up to 4 weeks.
However, the exact speed depends on:
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Severity of deficiency
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Presence of other health conditions (e.g., inflammation, chronic disease)
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Type and dose of IV iron (e.g., Monoferric allows full replacement in one dose)
How Long Does It Take to Feel Better After an Iron Infusion?
You may start noticing improvements in energy, mood, and stamina within 3–5 days, with full benefits peaking around 10–14 days post-infusion. The results often last months to years, depending on your individual iron needs.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
IV Iron is a safe and effective treatment for iron deficiency in pregnancy. Your doctor will discuss the safety profile with you before your infusion. Is it safe? What are the side effects of IV iron?
Very safe. Monoferric (the IV formulation we use) has been around since 2009. With a pristine safety record. We’ve overseen thousands (and trained 150+ HPCs) on it. Serious events are rare (5-in-a-million), and otherwise minimal, limited to mild flushing (5%) +/- a mild headache and flu-like symptoms for a day or two afterwards. Nothing some extra water and Tylenol can’t fix.
Are there long-term side effects of iron infusions?
Long-term side effects are rare. We always assess iron overload risk and tailor treatment to your lab results.