The main rational of performing IV (intravenous) nutrient therapy is because we can can increase serum (blood) concentrations of these nutrients to levels that unattainable through oral supplement alone. Nutrients like vitamin C and magnesium have an upper limit in serum concentration due limits in absorption and excretion. With oral vitamin C supplementation the average person can only increase their blood concentrations by 25% whereas with IV therapy we can elevate concentrations well greater than 100%. Why would we want to increase nutrients to this concentration? The elevated concentrations is seen with IV therapy is important because many of these nutrients have a more pronounced effect and have increase therapeutic benefit when given at these higher concentrations. Additionally, these higher concentrations help to push and pull nutrients into ailing cells which otherwise is not achievable through oral supplementation alone. Finally, IV therapy can be useful for individuals who are having difficulties absorbing nutrients, alterations in metabolism by the liver, and/or are in need to of extra nutrient support due to altered metabolic demands (chemotherapy).

Each IV’s is tailored to your individual needs which means that some individuals will get more or less of a particular vitamin and some individuals will receive additional nutrients to support their specific health needs. Typical ingredients can include magnesium, calcium, B12, a B-vitamin complex, and vitamin C but may also include various amino acids, glutathione, and/or other minerals and vitamins not mentioned above. Again, I will highlight that each IV will be individualized for each patient and each visit as patients progress on there healing journey.

Prior to IV nutrient therapy your healthcare practitioner will want to have an initial consultation to insure that this is the right procedure for you. Additionally they may want to run some basic laboratory testing to evaluate your kidneys, liver, nutrient status, and overall health so that the IV can be tailor to your physiologic needs.

IV’s are administered directly into the veins of the arm using a smaller gauge needle for decrease discomfort. Once the line is set up and the flow is started you may feel a cool sensation running up your arm which is normal. Additionally some patients may experience a warming sensation through out their bodies as the IV infuses. For a push IV your doctor will slowly push the solution over a period for 5-20 minutes depending on tolerance. For a drip IV once this has been set up is in and flowing it’s your time to relax however you need wether that read a book, catch up on a tv show, or simply deep breaths and relax, Its up to you! Once the IV is nearing its end the practitioner will remove the setup, clean the site, and make sure your ready for your day.These procedures always require a great deal of communication so if you are feeling pain or generally unwell always inform your health care practitioner as soon as possible.

This can differ greatly depending on the formula used for each person but in general it is not uncommon for patients to feel calm/relaxed or instantly energized. It really depends on the individuals treatment goals. I will mention, although uncommon, that in some patients a post IV reaction can occur which includes symptoms of a headache, muscle pain, and fatigue the night following an IV therapy. This reaction is typically followed by a period of increased energy, mood, or mental clarity. This is similar to a detox reaction because with IV therapy the high concentrations of nutrients causes cells to up regulate sluggish systems that have been backlogged. This creates the rapid detox reaction. These are most likely to occur in the first few IV sessions. Although I am normalizing some symptoms above, if you have these or are concerned always reach out to your doctor for professional medical advice.