What is happening to your body when you receive IV therapy?  

When receiving IV therapy, a person receives a liquid mixture of vitamins and minerals through a small tube inserted into a vein.  This provides for greater and immediate absorption of such nutrients into the bloodstream.  Higher levels of the vitamins and minerals in your bloodstream lead to greater uptake into cells, which theoretically will use the nutrients to maintain health and fight illness. 

How is IV therapy administered?

A pharmacist or licensed professional will usually mix the solution per the physician’s orders. A qualified nurse or licensed healthcare professional will need to access a vein and secure the needle in place, which could take a couple of attempts if the patient is dehydrated.  The nurse or healthcare professional will then monitor the vitamin infusion to ensure the rates of vitamins and minerals are administered properly and consistent with desired results

What type of health concerns or person would benefit the most from IV therapy and why?

IV therapy is being used for a wide variety of health concerns.  Conditions that have responded positively to the Myers’ cocktail treatment include asthma, migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, muscle spasms, pain, allergies, and sinus and respiratory tract infections.  A number of other disease states, including angina and hyperthyroidism, have also shown promising results to IV therapy. Many people are also using such therapy for quick rehydration after an intense sporting event, such as running a marathon, to cure a hangover, or for improved skin clarity.

What kinds of vitamins or minerals would work best with IV therapy?

Commonly used vitamins in an IV vitamin drips are vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium, and calcium. IV vitamin drips may also contain amino acids (the building blocks of protein) and antioxidants, such as glutathione. It is important to consult with your physician about what nutrients you specifically may be lacking

What are the risks, if any?

Risks associated with IV therapy in general include blood clots, and vein irritation and inflammation, which could be painful. Air embolisms can also be introduced through an IV line, which could cause a stroke.  If the infusions aren’t carefully monitored and the fluid drips too quickly, there is a risk of fluid overload, which could affect electrolyte balances and damage the kidneys, brain, and heart.  Although the risk of infection is unlikely, it’s important to consult with a licensed medical professional who will perform the therapy to manage this risk and ensure you have a healthy IV therapy experience. 

What should people consider if they’re planning to undergo IV therapy?

If you want to try IV therapy, it’s important to do your research. Talk with your primary care physician to determine whether IV therapy is right for you. Inquire whether you have any vitamin or mineral deficiencies that could be benefitted by IV therapy, and whether any of your health conditions could put you at an increased risk for an adverse reaction to the drip.  Always make sure that the physician or trained professional administering your IV treatment is appropriately board certified and aware of all your specific health conditions and concerns.