What is an IV iron infusion?
An IV iron infusion is a medical procedure where a sterile iron solution is delivered directly into your bloodstream through a small intravenous catheter. Unlike oral iron supplements, which can take 3–6 months to raise ferritin levels (and often cause severe stomach upset), IV iron bypasses your digestive system entirely. The result: most patients see their iron levels normalize within 2–4 weeks of a single 30-minute session. At MED1 Clinic in Vaughan, we exclusively use the two safest, fastest-acting iron formulations available in Canada: Monoferric® (ferric derisomaltose) and Venofer® (iron sucrose). Both are Health Canada–approved and administered under the supervision of our Family Physician and registered nurses.
Who should consider an iron infusion?
Iron infusions are typically recommended for patients who have one or more of the following: • Iron deficiency anemia (low hemoglobin + low ferritin) • Heavy menstrual bleeding causing chronic iron loss • Pregnancy or postpartum iron deficiency • Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis) preventing iron absorption • Celiac disease or post-bariatric surgery • Failed oral iron therapy — pills caused nausea, constipation, or didn't raise levels • Chronic kidney disease • Athletes with low ferritin affecting performance and recovery If you've been exhausted, foggy, losing hair, or short of breath despite "normal" hemoglobin, you may have low ferritin (iron stores) without anemia — and you may still benefit from infusion therapy.
What to expect at your first appointment
Your first visit at MED1 in Vaughan takes about 60–90 minutes total. Here's the timeline: Step 1 — Medical consultation (15 min). Our physician reviews your bloodwork, medical history, symptoms, and confirms you're a candidate. Step 2 — Pre-infusion vitals (5 min). Blood pressure, heart rate, and a brief skin check. Step 3 — IV placement and infusion (30 min). A small IV is placed (most patients describe it as a quick pinch), and the iron solution drips in slowly while you relax in our recliner chair. You can read, watch Netflix, or work on your laptop. Free Wi-Fi and tea/coffee are available. Step 4 — Post-infusion observation (15 min). We monitor you for any reactions before clearing you to go home. You can drive yourself home and return to normal activities the same day.
How much does it cost in Ontario?
In Ontario, the consultation and infusion administration are covered by OHIP when you have a valid health card and a referral from a physician (or you can book directly with our in-house physician). The iron medication itself is typically billed separately: • Monoferric: ~$650–$800 for a full dose (often a single infusion is sufficient) • Venofer: ~$50–$80 per session, but requires multiple visits Most extended health benefit plans (Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, GreenShield, etc.) cover the medication under prescription drug benefits. We provide a detailed receipt for reimbursement. For uninsured patients, we offer transparent flat-rate pricing — no surprise fees.
How to book at MED1 in Vaughan
Booking is simple. You have three options: 1. Direct booking — If you don't have a family doctor, our in-house Family Physician can assess you. Submit our intake form and we'll contact you within one business day. 2. Physician referral — If you have a family doctor or specialist, ask them to send a referral to MED1. We'll call you to schedule. 3. Self-pay assessment — For uninsured patients or those wanting to skip wait times. Our clinic is located in Vaughan, just minutes from Highway 400 and 407, with free parking. We see patients Monday through Saturday, with evening appointments available.