Iron Infusions vs Oral Supplements: Which is Right for You?
Feeling tired, low in energy, and struggling with your day-to-day life? If you’ve been diagnosed with iron deficiency, we feel you. Fortunately, help is available and here at Narangba Station Medical Centre, we’re here to find the treatment that’s right for you. Whether that’s an iron infusion or an oral treatment, we’ve got you covered.
Women’s health is more at risk of being affected by iron deficiency than men’s health. This is due to a higher chance of heavy periods, pregnancy, or increased nutrition. However, this doesn’t mean low iron can’t occur for other reasons in men’s health. Long-term health conditions, poor diets, and other factors can all contribute to low iron levels in both men and women. Whatever the cause, we’ll help you to understand what it is and provide the treatment you need.
If you think you may have low iron or have just been diagnosed, don’t delay. Book in at Narangba Station Medical Centre today to go over your blood results and discuss the safest and most effective way to improve your health.
Let’s take a look at the two most common treatments.
Table of Content
- Understanding Iron Deficiency
- What Are Iron Infusions?
- How Iron Infusions Work
- Benefits of Iron Infusions
- Risks & Considerations
- What Are Oral Iron Supplements?
- Types of Oral Iron
- Benefits of Oral Iron
- Common Side Effects
- Iron Infusions vs Oral Supplements: Key Differences
- Which Treatment Is Right for You?
- Brisbane Iron Infusions at Narangba Station Medical Centre
- Take Control of Your Iron Levels Today
- FAQs
Iron deficiency is a common health issue in Australia. Factors such as diet, lifestyle, and other medical conditions can increase your risk of developing an iron deficiency. For example, women of childbearing age may be more susceptible due to menstruation, pregnancy, or increased nutritional needs. Others can develop low iron due to chronic health conditions or dietary and nutritional choices that are low in iron.
It’s important to understand and treat an iron deficiency. Iron is important for your energy, immune system, and overall health and well-being. When you’re low in iron, you may feel tired and fatigued, struggle to concentrate, or find yourself becoming more susceptible to illness. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious health concerns, such as iron deficiency anaemia.
At Narangba Station Medical Centre in Brisbane, we specialise in assessment and treatment for iron deficiency and can bulk bill iron infusions for those who are eligible.
Iron infusions are an effective way to treat low iron. Iron is infused directly into your bloodstream, which your body can quickly absorb. This treatment is an option for those who are unable to take oral iron, have trouble absorbing iron in the digestive system, or need to raise their iron levels quickly. Iron infusions safely rebuild your body’s iron stores under the supervision of medical professionals.
So let’s explore how iron infusions work, the benefits they can offer, and what you should consider before starting treatment.
An iron infusion is a straightforward procedure where iron is delivered directly into your bloodstream, where your body can absorb it quickly and easily. At Narangba Station Medical Centre we perform this procedure in a comfortable clinic environment and is administered by a GP or trained nurse. We monitor you closely throughout the procedure to make sure you are safe.
The appointment usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes depending on your personal requirements and the type of iron you require. On arrival our friendly team will go over your medical history, explain the procedure and answer any questions you have.
Before the infusion begins, you will be asked to complete a Queensland Iron Infusion Consent Form, which ensures you understand the procedure, potential risks, and benefits.
This is a standard part of care and helps our team provide treatment safely and with full transparency. Once the consent process is complete, a small intravenous line will be inserted into a vein in your arm or hand, and the iron will be slowly dripped into your bloodstream.
While you are having the infusion you will be seated comfortably and can read a book, browse the internet on your phone, and relax. Our staff will closely monitor you while you have the infusion. A GP or nurse will check on you from time to time to ensure you are doing okay. At the end of the infusion there is a short waiting time to ensure there are no immediate side effects.
If you would like, you are welcome to have someone with you for support and company during your appointment. After your appointment, most people can go about their day as normal, although some people may experience mild side effects such as a warm feeling, headache, or some temporary fatigue.
Iron infusions have several benefits for patients with low iron or iron deficiency anaemia. One of the main benefits is speed: because iron is infused directly into the bloodstream, many patients feel better within days or weeks. Patients who require fast iron deficiency treatment find iron infusions to be an effective solution.
Iron infusions are also well-suited for patients with severe iron deficiency, for those with poor absorption of oral iron supplements, and for those with intolerance to iron tablets due to digestive side effects. In these situations, iron infusions may be more reliable and comfortable than oral supplements alone.
We determine when to get an iron infusion on a case-by-case basis for each patient, so they are a suitable treatment for your health needs and are administered safely under medical supervision.
Iron infusions are generally very safe, but it is important to note that there can be potential risks and considerations. As with any medical procedure, there is a small risk of infusion reactions, and some people might experience mild side effects such as headache, tiredness or feeling warm during or after the infusion. We at Narangba Station Medical Centre have an experienced team who will be monitoring you at all times to make you as safe and comfortable as possible.
In some cases, for people who are managing chronic fatigue syndrome or chronic low energy, iron deficiency might add to the symptoms they are experiencing. In these cases, our team will monitor the situation closely and work with you to make sure your treatment is working well for your individual situation.
We can often coordinate your iron infusions with other parts of your treatment plan to help with your general energy and sense of well-being, so that you can start to feel more like yourself. By being aware of all the benefits, as well as the potential risks, of iron infusions, you can make an informed decision about your treatment plan and help us to make sure that your treatment is as safe, effective and personalised as possible.
Oral iron supplements are a popular and effective method of increasing low iron levels. They deliver iron in a form that your body can slowly absorb through the digestive system, restoring iron stores over time. Oral iron is often used in patients with mild to moderate iron deficiency or for those seeking a convenient at-home treatment.
Let’s first take a look at the different types of oral iron available, how they work to replenish your iron stores, and what side effects you can expect.
The 3 main types of oral iron that you may be prescribed or find over-the-counter to treat low iron levels are:
- Ferrous sulphate is the most common type of oral iron. It works well, is typically very affordable, and is a good first choice for many patients who are not sensitive to taking tablets.
- Ferrous gluconate is often gentler on the digestive system and so less likely to cause stomach upset, constipation, or nausea than ferrous sulphate. It does have a slightly lower dose of elemental iron per tablet, but many patients still prefer it.
- Ferrous fumarate has a slightly higher dose of elemental iron per tablet, so may be better for people who need a higher strength supplement. Some patients find it a little harder on the stomach, so it may be recommended to be taken with food or under medical supervision.
The ideal oral iron supplement for you will be based on your tolerance, absorption, and other individual health needs. The team at Narangba Station Medical Centre can help you determine the most appropriate type and dose for you, and, if you are prescribed oral iron, we can also manage your repeat prescription and regular monitoring to support your recovery.
Iron deficiency can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, so understanding these differences in oral iron can help you to take your supplements with confidence, reduce side effects, and get the most benefit.
Taking iron tablets is a practical and effective way to slowly restore your iron levels. Oral supplements can be taken at home, offering flexibility for those with busy schedules or a preference for avoiding clinic visits.
Oral iron promotes a gradual improvement in energy, concentration, and overall well-being as your iron stores are replenished over time. It’s non-invasive and widely accessible, making it a common first-line treatment for mild to moderate iron deficiency. The range of formulations and dosages also means that your healthcare team can personalise the iron supplement to your body and lifestyle, minimising side effects and ensuring the treatment is as effective as possible.
Oral iron supplements are typically well-tolerated, although some individuals may experience side effects such as constipation, nausea, or dark-coloured stools. In most cases, these side effects are mild and can often be managed with simple solutions such as taking your supplement with food or using slow-release formulations.
At Narangba Station Medical Centre, we can also advise on how to minimise iron supplement side effects while ensuring that your treatment is as effective as possible, so it’s a good idea to consult with us if you have concerns about any potential side effects. Knowing what to expect with iron supplements can help you take your medication more comfortably.
When you’re deciding between oral iron and an infusion, it can help to see the main differences side by side. Both treatments aim to restore healthy iron levels, but they work in different ways and suit different needs.
To make things clearer, here’s a simple comparison of iron infusions vs oral supplements.
Key Consideration |
Oral Supplements |
Iron Infusions |
Speed of Results |
Gradual improvement, usually over weeks to months. | Rapid improvement, often within days to weeks. |
Convenience |
At-home, daily pills, no appointment needed. | In clinic treatment, usually one visit of 30–60 minutes. |
Side Effects |
Upset stomach, constipation, or dark stools. | Rare infusion reactions, mild headache or fatigue. |
Cost Factors |
Generally inexpensive. | Can be expensive* depending on treatment. |
Best For |
Mild to moderate iron deficiency, with ongoing maintenance. | Severe deficiency, poor absorption, or intolerance to tablets. |
*At our clinic, iron infusions may be bulk billed for patients who meet Medicare eligibility criteria. Our team can guide you through the process and let you know if this applies to you.
It’s not always possible to know the best way to treat iron deficiency without understanding a person’s overall health profile. If your iron levels are only slightly low and you’re generally in good health, oral supplements can be sufficient to slowly increase iron stores and boost energy levels.
Infusions, on the other hand, can be the safest and most effective way to treat severe symptoms, circumstances where the cause of the deficiency interferes with absorption, or where tablets cause too many side effects. It’s always best to determine whether or not you need an iron infusion based on blood tests and the advice of a GP.
At Narangba Station Medical Centre, we understand that optimising your iron levels is more complex than a medical consultation and blood test. Sometimes there are other ways to meet your iron needs, such as dietary and lifestyle changes. Our in-house nutritionist can help you determine the best course of action for your individual case.
If you need the convenience and long-term support of oral supplements, or a fast-acting way to treat low iron quickly with an infusion, our team can help you decide the best course of treatment.
If you’ve been recommended an iron infusion in Brisbane, cost is often one of the first questions patients have. While infusions are generally more expensive than oral tablets, at Narangba Station Medical Centre we aim to make treatment as accessible as possible. For eligible patients, we can provide an iron infusion bulk-billed through Medicare, reducing or even removing out-of-pocket costs.
Our team will guide you through the process, our fees and let you know if you meet the bulk billing criteria, so there are no surprises on the day. Conveniently located in Brisbane’s north, our clinic makes it easier for local patients to access safe, supervised treatment in a supportive setting.
Our patients are at the centre of all of our decisions. This means that your treatment plan will be unique to you, and may include oral iron supplements, an iron infusion, or ongoing monitoring. If you’re experiencing an iron deficiency, we want to help you to get your iron levels back to where they should be.
Through support, treatment, and advice from our experienced medical team, you can increase your iron stores and feel better, safely and effectively.
Both oral iron supplements and iron infusions can be effective in restoring iron levels. The best choice depends on the severity of your deficiency, how well your body absorbs iron, and how you tolerate different treatments. Some people do well with tablets alone, while others may need the faster results of an iron infusion in Brisbane.
Our doctors can arrange the necessary blood tests and guide you through the options, so
you feel confident in your treatment plan. In addition to iron therapy, we also provide vitamin B12 injections, which can be an important part of managing fatigue and supporting your overall well-being.
If you’d like to know more or you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to book a consultation with our friendly team today. For more information about our services, feel free to contact us directly. We’re here to help.
FAQs
Many patients notice an improvement in their energy and symptoms within a few days to a couple of weeks after an iron infusion. The exact timing depends on how low your iron levels were to begin with and how your body responds. Your GP will usually arrange follow-up blood tests to check that your iron stores have improved.
Most people feel well enough to drive home after their infusion. The appointment itself is usually comfortable and you’ll be monitored by our medical team. However, if you feel a little tired or lightheaded afterwards, you may prefer to have someone with you or arrange a lift home.
At Narangba Station Medical Centre, we may be able to bulk bill iron infusions for eligible patients under Medicare. Our team can check your eligibility and explain your options, making sure treatment is as affordable as possible.
In some cases, your GP may recommend continuing with oral iron after an infusion to help maintain healthy iron levels long term. The right approach depends on your individual health needs, absorption, and tolerance. We’ll work with you to create the best treatment plan for your situation.
Iron infusions can be safely given during pregnancy when oral iron is not effective or tolerated, but they are only recommended when clearly needed. Your GP will carefully assess your iron levels and overall health to decide the safest treatment for you and your baby.
Some lower-dose iron supplements are available over the counter at pharmacies. However, higher-strength preparations usually require a prescription. At Narangba Station Medical Centre, our GPs can recommend the most suitable option for you and provide repeat prescriptions if needed.
Contact & Bookings
To make an appointment, please call reception or use our online booking system via the button below. You can also visit our contact page to see further details about our location and directions.
Bookings are available from as early as 7AM on weekdays and Saturday. We are also open Sunday afternoon and late evening on Tuesday and Thursday until 8:30PM.Â
Can't find us? - We are situated across the road from Narangba Train Station next to the Narangba Village shopping complex. Look for signs for Narangba Health Centre and IGA.