Ferritin Level of 2: Insurance Denied Ferrlecit Iron Infusion

When I had my bloodwork done in June, my ferritin level was a 2.  I have tried taking the tablet form of iron but have severe cramping with it.  My surgeon referred me to a hemotologist who is recommending IV Ferrlecit.  My insurance denied this saying that this treatment is not FDA approved for treating iron deficiency.  Can someone help me find either an alternative that is FDA approved or information that shows that it is FDA approved? Thanks, Jennifier

Have you talked to the hematologist's office to see if they can recommend an alternative treatment that would be covered by your insurance?  I think they have the most knowledge about what might be helpful to you.  Also, have you confirmed with your hematologist's office whether this treatment has been approved by the FCA for treating iron deficiency?  Perhaps the insurance company's information is out-of-date.   I'm assuming you've tried various forms of iron supplments in tablet form.  If not, can your surgeon recommend some types of supplements that may be easier on your gastrointestimal system?  Also, have you tried taking the iron supplement at mealtime?  Perhaps it would be better tolerated if it's introduced to your system in conjunction with food.  Anyway, just a couple suggestions to hopefully guide you in the right direction.  Good luck finding a solution to this problem; it's a tricky one to manage.   Kellie

I have a call into the hematologist. Everyone was gone today. We've been trying to get this approved through them since August and the nurse said she's never had a problem before like this. I called the pharmaceutical company and they said they are FDA approved for iron deficiency in patients on hemodialysis with end stage renal failure. However many people have had the same type of infusion approved. I am going to see if Infed would be an option.

We've tried different forms of the iron and I make sure not to take it with calcium, etc. My surgeon said that with my iron stores virtually depleted what iron I would aborob wouldn't restore them. It might merely maintain the iron in my blood. I had a baby in January and I guess he just drained what iron I had built up despite some very careful monitoring.

I'm just trying to find some info in writing when I appeal to the insurance company. I don't want to have to pay out of pocket but am considering that as an option if it means I can get my iron soon.

I had really low ferritin levels until I started taking a chelated iron supplement called HemaPlex that I buy at my local vitamin store (you can buy online too).  It has been the only thing that has helped raise my levels and it doesn't cause the stomach/bowel problems that the regular iron pills do.  If you don't want to try that you might want to contact your insurance company directly and speak to a medical advisor to see what a covered option might be for you. Good Luck! Mary

My ferritin dropped down to 7 and my hematologist order Iron Infusions, no problems with insurance. Perhaps it's just that particular kind?? I'm sure there are infusions that can be done that would be covered. You don't have time to wait around for insurance approval girl - you need the iron NOW!!!  I'd definately push the hematologist to get you some form of infusion.  Best of wishes, 

I know your pain.  There may be two reasons why it was denied.  For one, Ferrlecit can only be given in multiple doses, typically once a week for 8 wks.  I don't know the FDA status, but besides a waste of money (at $35 per visit) I thought it was just a souped-up vitamin.  I just took IV Infed, which is a one shot deal (takes about 3-5 hours) and has great results if you can tolerate it (I was feeling better in a matter of days and had no prob w/ ins).  Another thing is how it was ordered.  Some medical plans don't cover it, you have to order the meds through your prescription plan and use your medical for administration.  Many times these are one in the same company, but I don't have to tell you how unhelpful these insurance ppl can be.  Call your Rx plan to see what they say if your ins won't cover Infed either.  Worst case scenario, appeal their decision.  I'm sure if your down to a 2, there is some record of the downward spiral that would support some action on their part.  FYI, I took HemaPlex for over a year and it didn't work for me...I still had cravings and extreme fatigue.  When you're so low, you gotta get those ferritin stores up first before any supplement can really be effective.

Be Blessed!

Jennifer, I am sorry to hear about your problems. I am trying to get my ferritin above 50 and closer to 100 because I don't want to have infusions.  I take Tender Iron by vitalady.com.  It is meant to be swallowed but I chew them and they taste good.  Maybe you could try them until your insurance approves the infusions.  Good luck!