I.V. (Intravenous) Iron Dextran Therapy

Iron is a mineral that the body needs to make hemoglobin. Your red blood cells need hemoglobin to carry oxygen. If your body does not get enough iron, it cannot make enough red blood cells to keep you healthy. This is called iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia. Sometimes iron must be given by I.V. before or after surgery. This pamphlet reviews how iron is given, a list of iron-rich foods, possible side effects, what to do after receiving iron therapy, and who to call should you have any problems.