
FAQs
What is Iron Infusions UK?
Iron Infusions UK is a private, GP-led clinic specialising in intravenous (IV) iron treatment for people with iron deficiency or iron-deficiency anaemia. We focus on accessible, reasonably priced care and patient experience.
Where is the clinic based?
Iron Infusions UK is based at the Humber Therapy Centre in Beeston, near M1 Junction 25, with clinical rooms, a reception and waiting area. Our address is 132a Queens Road East, Beeston, Nottinghamshire, NG9 2FD
Is parking available?
Free parking is available at the clinic including designated disabled parking.
Who provides the consultation?
There will be an online anaemia consultation with a UK-based GMC registered doctor with over 20 years clinical experience to assess whether an iron infusion is appropriate.
Do I need a referral from my NHS GP?
No, you do not need an NHS referral from your GP, although it is ideal if you already have had blood tests confirming anaemia. We will seek your consent to obtain any relevant GP information and will keep your NHS GP fully informed with your permission.
Is the clinic CQC registered?
Yes. Iron Infusions UK is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). For reassurance, patients can check the clinic's current registration and published details on the CQC website.
What is iron and why does the body need it?
Iron is an essential nutrient used to make haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body.
What is iron-deficiency anaemia?
Iron-deficiency anaemia occurs when a lack of iron means the body cannot make enough healthy haemoglobin. A clinician should assess blood results and the possible cause of iron deficiency.
What symptoms can low iron cause?
Symptoms can include tiredness, reduced energy, breathlessness, dizziness and difficulty concentrating, although symptoms vary. These symptoms can have other causes, so assessment and appropriate blood tests are important.
Why might someone consider an iron infusion instead of tablets?
IV iron may be considered when oral iron has not worked, is not tolerated, is not absorbed adequately, or iron needs to be replaced more quickly. Whether it is appropriate depends on an individual clinical assessment.
Will an infusion identify the cause of my low iron?
No. An infusion replaces iron but does not by itself identify why iron levels are low. Your clinician should consider the underlying cause and whether further investigation or follow-up with your GP is needed.
Who may be suitable for an iron infusion?
IV iron may be suitable for some people with confirmed iron deficiency or iron-deficiency anaemia, particularly where oral iron is ineffective or not tolerated. Suitability and dose must be decided by a qualified clinician after reviewing your history and results.
Do I need blood tests before treatment?
Yes, the clinical team needs suitable recent blood results to assess iron deficiency and decide whether IV iron is appropriate.
Can I use blood tests arranged by my own GP?
Yes, as long as they were taken in the past 3 months, and you can show us on your NHS app or a print out from your GP.
Can everyone have an iron infusion?
No. IV iron is not suitable for everyone. A clinician must review the diagnosis, allergies and previous reactions, medical conditions, medicines and other relevant factors before deciding whether treatment is appropriate.
What should I tell the clinician before treatment?
Tell the clinician about all medicines and supplements, allergies or previous reactions to IV iron, pregnancy or possible pregnancy, current or recent infection, and relevant medical conditions. You can discuss these things at your initial consultation.
Can I have an infusion if I am pregnant?
We cannot give you an iron infusion if you are pregnant, or think you might be. Please be prepared to take a pregnancy test before your consultation if there is any doubt.
What happens at the consultation?
You will have online anaemia consultation with a GMC registered doctor to review whether an iron infusion is appropriate. The consultation process will include review of symptoms, relevant medical history and blood results; the clinic will confirm any additional steps required.
How is an iron infusion given?
A small cannula is inserted into a vein in the arm, and the prescribed iron medicine is carefully administered intravenously over time. The clinical team checks observations and monitors you during treatment.
How long does the infusion take?
The infusion itself can take around 15–30 minutes . Allow extra time for assessment, preparation and post-infusion monitoring; you will need to stay in the clinic for 30 minutes after your infusion so we can make sure you are well before leaving. In this time, we will of course offer you a hot drink and ethical biscuits from Half the Story.
Will I be monitored during and after the infusion?
You will be closely monitored by medical staff both during, and after the procedure. In the unlikely event of complication, the clinic and staff are fully trained and equipped to deal with arising complications and emergencies such as anaphylaxis, which are rare.
Will I need one infusion or more than one?
Most people need only one infusion, while others may need additional treatment depending on their iron deficit, weight, blood results, the product used and their response. The clinician will determine the dose and whether another infusion is needed.
Which iron medicine does the clinic use?
We use Ferinject (ferric carboxymaltose) at 500 mg, 1,000 mg and 1,500 mg strengths depending on the needs of the patient. The dose and product actually offered will be confirmed by the treating clinician and checked against current product guidance; a listed price option does not mean that dose is suitable for every patient.
Can I drive home after my infusion?
After a short recovery period, in the vast majority of cases yes. This will be discussed at your initial assessment, and again on the day - the clinic will provide advice based on how you feel after treatment. If you feel dizzy, unwell or experience a reaction, do not drive; follow the clinical team’s discharge advice.
How quickly will I feel better?
Some people notice improvement within days, while for others it takes several weeks. Response varies according to the cause and severity of iron deficiency and other health factors; an infusion cannot guarantee a particular symptom improvement or timeframe.
How long will the effects last?
This depends on why your iron became low and whether that cause continues. Some people may need monitoring or further treatment over time, particularly if ongoing blood loss or another underlying condition persists.
When should I have follow-up blood tests?
We recommend repeat blood tests around 4–8 weeks after treatment. You can arrange these with your own GP or with Iron Infusions UK, we will provide advice on this at the time of treatment.
Can I continue taking iron tablets after the infusion?
Do not change or restart iron supplements without following the instructions from your treating clinician. Advice can vary by product and clinical circumstances, so ask the clinic specifically when to resume oral iron.
Are iron infusions safe?
IV iron is used routinely when clinically indicated, but it has risks and is not risk-free. It should be prescribed for an appropriate reason and given by trained staff with monitoring and facilities to manage serious reactions.
What side effects can happen?
Possible side effects include headache, nausea, dizziness, flushing, a metallic taste, muscle or joint aches, changes in blood pressure, rash and discomfort at the cannula site. The exact risks depend on the product and individual circumstances; discuss the patient information with the clinician.
Can I have an allergic reaction?
Yes. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including potentially life-threatening reactions, are rare but possible. Tell the team immediately if you feel unwell during treatment; the clinic must have suitable monitoring and emergency equipment.
Can an iron infusion stain my skin?
If iron leaks from the vein into surrounding tissue, it can cause brown skin staining that may be long-lasting or permanent. Tell the clinician immediately about pain, burning, swelling or leakage around the cannula site.
Can Ferinject affect phosphate levels?
Ferinject (ferric carboxymaltose) can cause low phosphate levels. The risk can be more relevant with repeated or high-dose treatment; ask the clinician whether you have risk factors or need phosphate testing, especially if you develop new or persistent tiredness, muscle pain or bone pain after treatment.
What symptoms mean I should seek urgent help after treatment?
Seek emergency help by calling 999 or attending A&E for symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, chest pain, collapse or a severe allergic reaction. Contact a clinician promptly about concerning or persistent symptoms after treatment.
How much does a consultation cost?
An anaemia consultation is £200. We offer a variety of discounts to help towards this cost.
How much does an iron infusion cost?
Iron infusions cost £390 for 500 mg, £590 for 1,000 mg and £790 for 1,500 mg. We will confirm the total cost and clinically appropriate dose at your initial consultation. We offer a variety of discounts to help towards this cost.
Are discounts available?
Yes! We offer a 10% discount for patients not funded by private insurance and a 25% Blue Light Card discount.
Are blood tests and follow-up included in the price?
No. We recommend testing through your GP. If this is not possible, please contact us to discuss our private blood testing options.
Can I pay through private medical insurance?
Yes. Please see our pricing page for more information about paying with Health Insurance.
How do I book an appointment?
First, check you are likely to be eligible for an iron infusion, using the questions on the homepage, then book an online consultation with us.
What should I bring or send before my appointment?
Have available any recent blood test results, a list of medicines and supplements, details of allergies and previous reactions, and relevant medical history. We'll let you know which results and documents we need when you book.
What if I need to cancel or rearrange?
We aim to be flexible and meet your needs, in line with our terms and conditions.
Will my GP be informed?
If you give us your permission, we will send a letter to your GP explaining your treatment with us and any follow up necessary. We would encourage you to consider doing so in most cases.
What if my iron levels remain low after treatment?
Your clinician should review follow-up results and symptoms and consider whether further iron, additional tests or investigation of the underlying cause is needed. Do not arrange repeat infusions without clinical reassessment.
Is an iron infusion the same as a blood transfusion?
No. An iron infusion supplies iron so your body can make its own red blood cells over time. A blood transfusion gives red blood cells directly and is used for different clinical reasons.
What safety arrangements are in place?
The business plan says the clinic intends to align its policies with CQC standards, provide resuscitation equipment including anaphylaxis equipment and an AED, train staff, and undertake audit and external peer review. Confirm actual current arrangements and registration status before publishing these as operational facts.
