Intravenous Iron Prophylaxis for Rapid High Altitude Insertions
To compare the effects of IV iron versus placebo (saline) injection on arterial oxygen saturation, submaximal exercise responses, and 2-mile treadmill time-trial performance during acute exposure to hypobaric hypoxia (430 mmHg, simulating \ 4800m) assessed 1 and 14 days after treatment. Primary Hypothesis 1: IV iron treatment will improve arterial oxygen saturation at rest and during exercise in acute hypobaric hypoxia and this effect will persist for 2 weeks Primary Hypothesis 2) IV iron treatment will improve 2-mile treadmill time trial performance in acute hypobaric hypoxia and this effect will persist for 2 weeks
• Man or woman, age 18-40 years
‣ BMI 18.5-30 kg/m2
⁃ In good health as determined by the Office of Medical Support \& Oversight (OMSO) General Medical Clearance
⁃ Passed his/her most recent Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) (Military Volunteers Only) or exercises at least 2 times per week and able to complete two mile run in ≤ 21 minutes (Civilian Volunteers)
⁃ Willing to not exercise, or drink alcoholic/caffeinated beverages 24 hours prior to each testing session
⁃ Willing to not perform any strenuous exercise 36 hours prior to each testing session