On the Day of Your Appointment Please help your practitioner by avoiding strong perfume, aftershave, or heavily scented body products, as fragrances may trigger sensitivities or allergies. If possible, refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol on the day of your treatment. Children are not permitted in the treatment room to ensure a safe and distraction-free environment. Companions are welcome; however, please let us know in advance, as some treatment rooms have limited space. For the safety and wellbeing of everyone in the clinic, we reserve the right to postpone or decline your appointment if strong fragrances create a health concern. Before your Iron Infusion, please inform your practitioner if you have a history of asthma, eczema, or allergies — particularly to any medications, iron supplements, or previous iron infusions. In some cases, a pre-medication (such as an antihistamine or mild steroid) may be recommended to reduce the risk of a reaction. Always follow your practitioner's pre-treatment advice and inform us of any health concerns before your visit. Eating Before Your Infusion Unlike some blood tests, iron infusions do *not* require fasting. In fact, we recommend eating a light meal 1–2 hours before your appointment. Having food in your stomach can help reduce the risk of nausea, dizziness, or stomach discomfort during or after the infusion. Hydration Stay well-hydrated in the 24–48 hours leading up to your iron infusion. Good hydration improves vein accessibility, supports your circulation during the infusion, and helps your body tolerate the treatment more comfortably. Medications & Supplements Please bring a complete list of everything you currently take, including any iron tablets or liquid supplements you may have been using previously. Unless advised otherwise by your doctor, you can continue taking your regular medications on the day of your infusion. However, please inform us if you are taking: - *Levothyroxine* (thyroid medication) — iron can reduce its absorption, so timing may need adjusting - *Antibiotics* such as tetracyclines, fluoroquinolone, or bisphosphonates — these can interact with iron - *Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)* or *antacids* — these can affect iron absorption Do not stop any prescribed medication without first consulting your doctor. If you are unsure, please contact the clinic for guidance. Alcohol & Lifestyle Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your iron infusion, as it can increase the risk of dizziness, nausea, and dehydration during the procedure. Avoid strenuous exercise immediately before your appointment, as intense physical activity can affect your blood pressure and make you more prone to feeling lightheaded during the infusion. Dietary Advice To help your body prepare for the infusion and reduce the risk of nausea, eat a light, balanced meal beforehand. Avoid very fatty, fried, or overly rich foods on the day of your treatment, as these can increase the likelihood of stomach upset. Where possible, also avoid very spicy foods, as they may increase flushing or inflammation in some individuals. Clothing & Accessories Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your inner elbow or the back of your hand for the IV cannula. Remove tight sleeves, watches, or bracelets from the arm likely to be used before your appointment. ​ What to Bring - Photo ID - Complete list of current medications and supplements (including dosages) - Any previous blood test results or health records related to your iron deficiency - A light snack and a bottle of water for after your infusion - Comfortable, loose clothing with easy arm access - Your glasses, if needed - A book, tablet, or headphones — the infusion typically takes 30–60 minutes, and you will be seated throughout Important Reminders If you are unwell — including cold, flu, fever, or active infection — please contact the clinic to reschedule your appointment, as illness can affect how your body tolerates the infusion. Please inform your practitioner if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as some iron formulations and dosing may need adjustment. Disclose any autoimmune conditions, bleeding disorders, or implantable devices before your appointment. Please also tell us if you have ever had: - A previous reaction to an iron infusion or iron injection - A reaction to iron tablets or liquid iron supplements - Severe asthma or allergic conditions If you have any questions about your pre-treatment preparation, please contact *Lisber Baldwin Clinic* before your appointment.