On Iron Infusions and Patient Safety

Is There Danger In Iron Infusions?

We have seen a lot in the media recently around iron infusions, including some catastrophic events. In particular a recent ABC news item, highlighted the dangers of iron infusions in some circumstances,

I continue to administer iron infusions. Why?

Iron Infusions Are Guideline Recommended

Because iron infusions are a guideline-recommended replacement for patients with iron deficiency where oral iron is not suitable or effective.

Yes, there are some products that are better than others, but the ability to administer them safely in an accredited infusion centre or clinic is critical - for monitoring, resuscitation readiness, and administrative purposes.

What Are The Side Effects

As with most medications, there are risks and side effects.

One side effect is known as hypophosphatemia. This is a an electrolyte disorder defined by an abnormally low blood phosphate level.

It can have repercussions in Musculoskeletal, Neurological and Cardiopulmonary systems

Researchers have discovered a correlation between administration of certain types of iron infusions and fractures, thought to be related to types of infusions and phosphate depletion as a result.

I have read the studies. I have listened to podcasts from significant professors all over the world, including from Austria where this was recently described. There are cirsumstances to note:

• The papers did not test for phosphate initially after the iron infusion.
• In fact pre infusion levels were not treated
• As with all papers published further study is recommended.

We Are On Top Of This Issue

We are fortunate to have had an endocrinologist on our extended team for some time, and this issue was highlighted a number of years ago.

We have been testing phosphate levels after iron infusions ever since.

There is no correlation between a patient who has a borderline phosphate to begin with and then develops hypophosphatemia.

Approximately 70-80% of my patients will need a prescription (for phosphate replacement) at two weeks. It is important:

• To recognise the potential problems
• To track any side effects and treat where necessary
• Reassess at three-monthly bloods to check again.
  • Read about our expertise with the interpretation of blood test results

You Are Safe With Dr Lockie's Practice

You can feel safe in the knowledge that our patients are well screened, well prepped, and well followed up.

In a clinic such as ours, this attention to detail is the most important thing to all of our team. 

This produces the best outcome for our patients.

We Are Here To Help

If you have struggled with low iron, but have concerns about iron infusions, please contact us here so we can discuss a course of action, to return you to full health.