IV iron treatment rises sharply, but administration costs remain a barrier
19 Aug 2026
A study published in the Internal Medicine Journal found that IV iron use among women aged 18 to 44 increased 17-fold between 2013 and 2024. In 2024, around one in 20 women in this age group received IV iron.
Spending on IV iron medicines also increased significantly, rising from $1.1 million in 2013 to more than $82 million in 2024.
Researchers said the increase may be linked to greater awareness and diagnosis of iron deficiency, as well as newer IV iron products that can deliver larger doses in a shorter period.
Ferric carboxymaltose accounted for almost 94% of IV iron claims in 2024, compared with 39.6% in 2014, when it was added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
While PBS listing has improved access to the medicine, the study found that regional differences in use remain. The proportion of women receiving IV iron with a concession card also fell from 30.9% in 2013 to 17.2% in 2024.
A key concern is the lack of a dedicated MBS item to cover the administration of IV iron. Clinics may need to absorb these costs or pass them on to patients, potentially creating a greater barrier for people on lower incomes.
The study also found that almost one in four women did not complete their prescribed treatment course. Researchers said cost, feeling better after an initial treatment and other factors may contribute to incomplete treatment.
The authors said further work is needed to understand differences in IV iron use across Australia and ensure women have equitable access to appropriate treatment.
IV iron treatment rises sharply, but administration costs remain a barrier
Source: Internal Medicine Journal study, reported by RACGP newsGP.