Dr. Shalini Hitkari Naturopathic Physician

Intravenous Iron Infusion Therapy

Is IV Iron Therapy Right for You?

If your ferritin levels are below 100 µg/L, intravenous (IV) iron therapy may be a suitable option for supporting healthy iron levels. This treatment can be helpful for individuals who experience ongoing fatigue, poor exercise tolerance, restless legs, or difficulty maintaining adequate iron levels through diet or supplements alone. It is essential to consult with a naturopathic doctor or your primary care provider to determine whether IV iron is appropriate for you. A current blood test assessing iron status and related markers is required before your first treatment to ensure safety and suitability.

How does low iron impact me?

Low iron levels can affect how your body makes energy and transports oxygen. Symptoms often develop gradually and can be easily overlooked. You may notice one or several of the following signs:

Feeling unusually tired or low in energy
Trouble sleeping or frequent restless legs at night
Needing daytime naps or feeling drained in the afternoon
Mood changes such as anxiety or depression
Frequent headaches or lightheaded spells
Racing heartbeat or a fluttering sensation (palpitations)
Dizziness or feeling faint when standing up
Becoming sick more often than others
Pale or dull skin tone
Thinning hair or increased hair shedding
Reduced sex drive
Cold hands and feet
Mouth sensitivity or recurring canker sores
Pale inner eyelids (conjunctiva)
Shortness of breath or general weakness

Why does iron deficiency happen?

There are many causes of low iron. Here are some of the most common:

Inadequate dietary intake – not eating enough iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, lentils, or leafy greens.
Poor absorption – conditions such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, low stomach acid, or certain medications (e.g., antacids, PPIs) can reduce iron absorption.
Blood loss – even small but ongoing losses (from heavy menstrual periods, gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or frequent blood donation) can deplete iron stores over time.
Increased needs – during pregnancy, breastfeeding, adolescence, or periods of rapid growth, the body’s demand for iron rises.
Chronic inflammation or illness – ongoing inflammatory or autoimmune conditions can interfere with how iron is used and stored.
Low stomach acid can impair the conversion of dietary iron into its absorbable form.
Vegan or vegetarian diets – plant-based iron (non-heme iron) is less easily absorbed than iron from animal sources.
Athletic training – endurance exercise and frequent sweating can increase iron losses and demands.

Before starting treatment, it’s essential to understand why your iron levels are low. Identifying the root cause helps make sure your levels stay healthy long-term.

If your iron stores need to be replenished more quickly — or if oral supplements haven’t worked well for you — IV iron therapy can be a gentle and effective way to restore your levels and help you feel more energized, focused, and resilient again.

What to expect during appointments

IV Iron Initial Appointment (Virtual)

Duration: 30 minutes

Cost: $150
For new and existing patients

Dr. Hitkari ND will review your health history, discuss the benefits and risks of IV therapy, and address all your questions. She will also review your lab results (or order new tests if needed) to confirm that IV iron is the right fit for you.

If appropriate, your Dr. Hitkari will send a prescription to a local pharmacy so the iron can be delivered to the clinic before your infusion.

Your IV iron infusion will be administered on the follow-up appointment.

IV Iron Infusion Appointment

Duration: 60–90 minutes

Cost: $250 per infusion

After your consultation, our front desk will contact you to book your infusion.

Please arrive well-hydrated and having eaten beforehand. Your treatment will take place in one of our private offices.

Many patients begin to notice improvements in their overall well-being within a few days to a week. Dr. Hitkari typically rechecks your iron levels 4–6 weeks after your infusion to track your progress. For the majority of patients, depending on the cause of their iron deficiency, their iron stores should be replenished for 2-5 years after an IV iron infusion.

Does insurance cover IV iron costs?

IV iron consultations and infusion appointments can be billed under naturopathic services through your extended health care plan.

The cost of the iron itself may be covered under your prescription drug plan, depending on your provider and policy details. Your pharmacist can help confirm whether your specific IV iron preparation is eligible for coverage and assist with the process if needed.