INTRAVENOUS (IV) THERAPY
What is Nutritional IV Therapy?
Nutritional IV Therapy is the administration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and/or amino acids directly into the bloodstream. Because IV therapy bypasses the digestive system, nutrients are delivered directly to the cell, increasing absorption and utilization of vital nutrients. IV nutrients are given in therapeutic, pharmacological doses greater than the minimal requirements of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), which are intended just to avoid deficiency states. Mineral deficiencies are epidemic now due to food processing, the gradual demineralization of the soil from modern agricultural practices, and poor lifestyle and dietary choices.
Why should I consider Nutritional IV Therapy?
IV therapy may be right for you if you are feeling fatigued, suffering from vitamin and/or mineral deficiencies, are affected by chronic illness, experience poor digestion and absorption, seeking preventative care, or simply looking to improve endurance and overall health. Specifically, Nutritional IV Therapy can be used to treat:
What can I expect during my first visit?
The first visit will focus on a thorough intake consisting of history, specific complaints, and physical examination. From here, the clinician will develop the appropriate type of IV (push or drip) and specific nutrient protocol most beneficial for your unique condition. Some IV protocols require additional lab testing to be performed prior to administering IV therapy. This will be discussed during our initial visit. The testing is not extensive and your blood can be drawn in office. Follow ups involve a brief reassessment of your complaints followed by gently inserting an IV either with a small butterfly needle or IV catheter.
How long does treatment take? How many treatments are necessary?
The amount of time required for one treatment depends on the type of treatment you are receiving.
IV pushes generally take about 15 – 20 minutes from start to finish, while IV drips can range from 1 – 2 hours depending on the volume of solution you are receiving.
The amount of treatments needed vary from patient to patient. IV therapies are most beneficial when provided as a series. Just as nutritional deficiencies or chronic complaints do not develop overnight, one IV treatment is usually not sufficient to restore deficiencies or correct longstanding problems. Most conditions will require a minimum of 1 – 2 months of treatment on a weekly or biweekly basis, however, your treatment protocol will be continually reevaluated and further recommendations will be made on an individual basis.
What are the side effects?
Nutritional IV therapy is generally very safe and poses minimal, if any side effects. Though rare, the most common side effects are a transient lowering of blood pressure, a sensation of warmth, and/or dizziness or fainting. If you experience any of these symptoms, we can adjust your formula accordingly. Allergic reactions occur occasionally, however, be assured that our office has all of the necessary supplies on hand to support you should you experience a reaction. As with any injectable treatment, there is always a risk of infection or phlebitis (irritation of the veins). Some patients may experience a transient, mild burning sensation at the infusion site.
Most patients report increased energy, improved mental focus, and greater stamina after receiving IV therapy.
What can I do to prepare for my IV treatment?
The most important thing you can do is stay very well hydrated. Drink plenty of water the day of your visit. This will make it easier to access your veins and ensures a smoother IV treatment, overall. You may wish to bring reading material or mobile device with you if you would like something to do while your treatment is being infused.
Nutritional IV Therapy is the administration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and/or amino acids directly into the bloodstream. Because IV therapy bypasses the digestive system, nutrients are delivered directly to the cell, increasing absorption and utilization of vital nutrients. IV nutrients are given in therapeutic, pharmacological doses greater than the minimal requirements of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), which are intended just to avoid deficiency states. Mineral deficiencies are epidemic now due to food processing, the gradual demineralization of the soil from modern agricultural practices, and poor lifestyle and dietary choices.
Why should I consider Nutritional IV Therapy?
IV therapy may be right for you if you are feeling fatigued, suffering from vitamin and/or mineral deficiencies, are affected by chronic illness, experience poor digestion and absorption, seeking preventative care, or simply looking to improve endurance and overall health. Specifically, Nutritional IV Therapy can be used to treat:
- Prevent and treat colds & flu
- Chronic fatigue
- Fibromyalgia
- PMS
- Pre and post-surgery support
- Recovery from illness
- Detoxification support
- Headaches
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Gastrointestinal malabsorption
- Enhance athletic performance
- Nervous system disorders (MS, Parkinson disease)
- Muscle spasms
- Neuropathy
- Issues associated with advanced aging
- Bacterial, Viral, and Fungal infections
- Cancer
- Lyme disease
- Liver disease
- General Health Maintenance
What can I expect during my first visit?
The first visit will focus on a thorough intake consisting of history, specific complaints, and physical examination. From here, the clinician will develop the appropriate type of IV (push or drip) and specific nutrient protocol most beneficial for your unique condition. Some IV protocols require additional lab testing to be performed prior to administering IV therapy. This will be discussed during our initial visit. The testing is not extensive and your blood can be drawn in office. Follow ups involve a brief reassessment of your complaints followed by gently inserting an IV either with a small butterfly needle or IV catheter.
How long does treatment take? How many treatments are necessary?
The amount of time required for one treatment depends on the type of treatment you are receiving.
IV pushes generally take about 15 – 20 minutes from start to finish, while IV drips can range from 1 – 2 hours depending on the volume of solution you are receiving.
The amount of treatments needed vary from patient to patient. IV therapies are most beneficial when provided as a series. Just as nutritional deficiencies or chronic complaints do not develop overnight, one IV treatment is usually not sufficient to restore deficiencies or correct longstanding problems. Most conditions will require a minimum of 1 – 2 months of treatment on a weekly or biweekly basis, however, your treatment protocol will be continually reevaluated and further recommendations will be made on an individual basis.
What are the side effects?
Nutritional IV therapy is generally very safe and poses minimal, if any side effects. Though rare, the most common side effects are a transient lowering of blood pressure, a sensation of warmth, and/or dizziness or fainting. If you experience any of these symptoms, we can adjust your formula accordingly. Allergic reactions occur occasionally, however, be assured that our office has all of the necessary supplies on hand to support you should you experience a reaction. As with any injectable treatment, there is always a risk of infection or phlebitis (irritation of the veins). Some patients may experience a transient, mild burning sensation at the infusion site.
Most patients report increased energy, improved mental focus, and greater stamina after receiving IV therapy.
What can I do to prepare for my IV treatment?
The most important thing you can do is stay very well hydrated. Drink plenty of water the day of your visit. This will make it easier to access your veins and ensures a smoother IV treatment, overall. You may wish to bring reading material or mobile device with you if you would like something to do while your treatment is being infused.