Iron Infusion

Has anyone had to have this done?

I have one scheduled for Monday morning, the 16th.  I was fine with it until they said that I'd have to bring someone with me to drive me home!!!!  Now I am a bit anxious. I understand that it is an I.V. treatment that may take up to 6 hours, but WHAT does it feel like?  Why do I need a driver afterwards?   I thought the point was to make me feel BETTER and not so tired all the time.......

Thanks for any input you can share!

 

I haven't had to have this done myself but I have had patients that have needed it done.  They all usually fell better better afterwards although it may take a bit before you notice.  It shouldn't feel any different than any other IV you've had before.  They will start by giving you a small test dose first to make sure you don't have any adverse reactions to this medication.  Then when they are sure you will handle the medication all right then they will procede to give you the rest of the medication.  I think they want you to have a driver just as a safety precaution.  The drug book says to have patient's rest for 15-30 mins after IV infusion of this med.  They'll be monitoring you closely so try to not be so nervous.  If you want more information about side effects, you can google Iron Dextran and it should bring you to a site where you can get more information about the med. Shelley

Dear Shelly: Thanks for the info.  I DID google Iron Dextran yesterday and could not really find any info from the patient's point of veiw........just the dry medical terminology of how to administer the treatment. Instead of getting myself all worked up, I realized I could ask on here and see what others' experience has been. Your answer helps immensely, thanks again!!!!

Sorry, cannot give you any answers to your question but Shelley gave you a lot of info. She is an RN and knows her stuff.  Come joins us in the daily roll call if you are able to. Myself or another member usually posts it daily. We are here for support and to just chit chat. Christine

I was able to drive myself after my infusion.  I had my first infusion in November and a second one in December.  I ended up with a blood transfusion due to other medical issues in March and now my levels are perfect. Anyways, during the infusion they will give you liquid benedryl and you will probably fall asleep (according to my doctors office everyone pretty much does fall asleep).  Anyways, besides for that little nap nothing was different to me than any other IV.  Your iron levels will not improve immediately, it takes six weeks for the results to show up in a blood test. Please feel free to pm if you have any specific questions. You will be fine, bring along something to do because it is a long day.  Also, you may want to find out if they feed you while you are t here.  Where I had my infusion they did not feed me and so I was very happy that I had brought along some protein bars and small snacks.  When I had my transfusion they fed me (but that was done in the hospital).  That is the biggest piece of advice I can give, make sure you know if you have food or bring some just in case.  I am not sure about you but I need to eat every few hours or my sugar levels get all out of whack and I do not feel well. Good luck, Nancy