Generally, when side effects do occur they are mild and go away on their own.
The most common side effects are temporary and include:
- headache, feeling sick or being sick, and pain in muscles or joints
- a change in taste (e.g. to a metallic one)
- changes in blood pressure or pulse.
A skin discoloration (brown) can occur as iron leaks into the tissue around the puncture site (drip). This is rare, but the stain may be long-term or permanent. Notify your doctor or nurse immediately of any pain, burning, redness, or swelling at the site of the puncture (drip) site. Although this happens very rarely, some people may experience a severe allergic reaction. In rare cases it can be life-threatening. You will be closely monitored during the IV iron infusion and for 30 minutes thereafter. Sometimes side effects (such as headache, muscle or joint pain) may appear 1-2 days later. They usually disappear on their own after a few days. However, if they bother you or interfere with your daily activities, contact your doctor or infusion center for advice. If you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness or swelling in your neck or mouth, please seek urgent medical attention / call an ambulance.