IV therapy, also known as IV infusion therapy or IV vitamin therapy, is a medical technique where fluids, nutrients, medications, or blood products are delivered directly into a person’s bloodstream through a vein. This bypasses the digestive system, allowing for rapid and complete absorption of the administered substances by the body. A healthcare professional inserts a small catheter into a vein, typically in the arm, and connects it to an IV bag containing the desired solution, which then drips into the bloodstream.

When vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients are consumed orally as food or supplements, they must pass through the digestive system. During this process, they are broken down, and only a portion of the nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. IV therapy, however, delivers these nutrients directly into the bloodstream, ensuring a much higher level of absorption and immediate availability for the body’s cells. This direct delivery results in greater bioavailability compared to oral intake.

IV therapy is used for various medical and wellness purposes. Some common types include IV hydration therapy, IV nutrition therapy (including vitamin IV therapy), antibiotic drips, blood transfusions, and pain medication IVs. Specific IV drips may be customized based on individual needs and goals, such as those aimed at boosting energy (containing B vitamins, magnesium, amino acids), supporting immunity (with vitamin C, zinc, glutathione), or aiding hydration and recovery (with electrolytes, B-complex, amino acids).

While generally considered safe when administered by trained healthcare professionals, IV therapy may not be suitable for everyone. It is crucial to consult with a doctor or naturopathic doctor (ND) before getting an IV drip, especially for pregnant women or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions like kidney disease or heart conditions. A comprehensive health assessment and review of medical history and medications are essential to ensure safety and appropriateness. During the IV, immediate medical attention should be sought if any discomfort such as pain, dizziness, or nausea is experienced. Sterile and professional administration and ongoing monitoring of vital signs are important safety measures.

A healthcare professional, such as a naturopathic doctor, will customize an IV drip based on a person’s individual needs, symptoms, medical history, and health goals. This may involve reviewing lab tests, such as blood work, to help determine the most appropriate combination and dosage of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients for the specific treatment.

The duration of an IV therapy session can vary depending on the type and volume of fluid being administered. While the provided sources do not give specific timeframes, IV drips are generally administered over a period of time, allowing for gradual infusion into the bloodstream.

The frequency of IV therapy is a personal decision and should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Factors that can influence how often someone chooses to get IV therapy include their budget, the extent of any vitamin deficiencies, and the presence of underlying health conditions. Some individuals may opt for IV therapy only when experiencing illness or feeling particularly drained, while others with difficulty digesting or absorbing nutrients may schedule regular sessions.

As with any medical procedure, IV therapy carries potential risks and side effects. While sources mention the importance of consulting a doctor due to potential issues for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions, and advising to alert medical staff to discomfort, the provided sources do not detail specific side effects of vitamin IV therapy. However, the general concept of infusion treatments can have side effects depending on the administered substance, and examples of general side effects from other infusion treatments like chemotherapy are mentioned, such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and mouth/throat changes. It is important to discuss potential side effects of a specific IV treatment with the healthcare team. Additionally, while direct delivery bypasses the digestive system, in rare cases with other types of infusions, complications like pulmonary edema (fluid overload) or air embolism can occur, though these are less commonly associated with standard nutrient IV therapy. Claims made about the generalized benefits of IV infusions, such as overall improvements in health or appearance, where there is no diagnosed clinical need, may lack accepted evidence and are considered misleading by some regulatory bodies.