Published by Aafiyat Medical Centre · September 2026
Short answer: Most people with low iron start with iron pills. An iron infusion, where iron is given through an IV, may be considered when pills cause side effects you can’t tolerate, when your body doesn’t absorb them well, when iron levels need to be raised faster, or when pills haven’t worked. Your doctor decides based on your symptoms and blood work.
What low iron can feel like
- Tiredness and low energy
- Shortness of breath with activity
- Feeling dizzy or light-headed
- Pale skin
- Headaches
- Brittle nails or hair loss
- Cravings for ice
These symptoms have many possible causes, so a blood test is needed to know whether iron is the reason.
Iron pills
Iron pills are the usual first step. They work well for many people, but they can take weeks to months to rebuild iron stores, and some people get stomach upset, nausea or constipation. Your doctor can suggest how and when to take them to make them easier to tolerate.
When an infusion may be considered
- You can’t tolerate iron pills because of side effects
- Your body doesn’t absorb iron well, for example after some stomach or bowel surgery, or with some bowel conditions
- Your iron needs to be raised more quickly
- Pills haven’t raised your iron after a fair trial
- During pregnancy, when your doctor or obstetrician recommends it
What happens at Aafiyat
It starts with a consultation with Dr. Ameen, who reviews your symptoms and blood work and looks for the reason your iron is low. If an infusion is right for you, it is given at the clinic, and you are monitored during and after.
What it costs
- The consultation is covered by OHIP.
- The iron medication is usually covered by private insurance or a drug plan.
- There is a $150 fee for the IV administration.
To book a consultation, call, text or WhatsApp 289-813-0786.
This article is general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.