IV Therapy 101: All the Basics You Need to Know
Intravenous (IV) therapy is a treatment that delivers fluids, nutrients, and medications directly into your bloodstream. It’s often used to treat dehydration, malnutrition, and certain medical conditions.
IV therapy can be used to deliver a variety of fluids, including water, saline, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. It can also be used to deliver medications and other treatments directly to the bloodstream.
IV therapy is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a trained medical professional. There are some risks associated with IV therapy, but these are typically minor and can be easily managed by your healthcare team.
Different IV therapy companies develop their blends of vitamins and minerals to address different needs, but the Myers' Cocktail is a popular option due to its range of ingredients and its positive effects. It contains the following vitamins and minerals in addition to saline.
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin B complex, including vitamin B12, plays a role in multiple bodily functions like blood sugar control, metabolism, and the production of energy. It can help you feel refreshed and revitalized whether you're sick, hungover, or just feel under the weather.
B complex may also help prevent migraines or stop them more quickly once they've started. B12 can even help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety caused by a deficiency in this vitamin.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for good health. Your bones, blood vessels and skin all need vitamin C to stay healthy, and it is a powerful antioxidant as well. Vitamin C intake is especially critical when you are sick or feeling like you're about to come down with something, as it supports healthy immune system function. When you are deficient in vitamin C, it's easier to get sick and stay sick for longer.
Glutathione
Glutathione is an antioxidant with several functions in the body. This compound is essential in:
- Forming DNA
- Supporting the immune system
- Breaking down certain free radicals
- Facilitating the function of certain enzymes
- Regenerating vitamin C and vitamin E
Zinc
Zinc has many jobs in keeping you healthy. It can help keep skin healthy and even assist in the healing of wounds. Zinc also supports the immune system by activating T cells and can even treat the common cold. Multiple studies have shown that taking zinc as soon as possible after the onset of a cold can reduce the duration of the illness by up to 40% in otherwise healthy individuals.
Magnesium
Hundreds of enzymes rely on magnesium to work, making it essential to overall health. The functions of magnesium have positive effects for:
- Bone health
- Calcium absorption
- Diabetes
- Heart health
- Migraines
How Does IV Therapy Work?
IV therapy is administered through a vein in the arm, and the fluids and treatments are delivered directly to the bloodstream. The IV therapy company you choose will likely have its protocol for delivering fluids and medications, but most therapies involve a blend of vitamins, minerals, and other treatments.
Your healthcare team will work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Therapy can be delivered regularly or only when you need it. You may also receive IV therapy as part of an outpatient or inpatient treatment program.
What Are the Risks Associated With IV Therapy?
There are some risks associated with IV therapy, but these are typically minor and can be easily managed by your healthcare team. Some potential risks include:
- Infection at the site of the IV
- Allergic reaction to the ingredients in the fluids or medications
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Blood clotting
Reasons for an IV Therapy Treatment
There are a variety of reasons you may need IV therapy. The most common reasons include:
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Malnutrition
- Anemia
- Sickness or infection
- Pain relief
- Unbalanced hormones
- Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety
Is IV Therapy Safe for Everyone?
No, not everyone is a candidate for IV therapy. You should not receive IV therapy if you have:
- A blood clotting disorder
- A history of fainting or lightheadedness withstanding minimal activity
- A current infection anywhere in the body
- Received an organ transplant in the last 6 months
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
IV therapy can be a helpful treatment for a variety of conditions. It's important to consult with your healthcare team to ensure IV therapy is right for you and to develop a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. There are some risks associated with IV therapy, but these are typically minor and can be easily managed by your healthcare team.
Are You Looking For the Best IV Therapy Clinic in Gilbert, Arizona?
Atlas Health Medical Group in Gilbert, Arizona specializes in providing Naturopathic / Functional Medicine to the East Valley including Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, San Tan and Queen Creek. We proudly offer Nutrient IV therapy, which is when vitamins, electrolytes, and minerals are infused directly into the bloodstream intravenously. This allows the delivery of the nutrients to bypass the digestive tract and the liver for maximal absorption. IV Vitamin therapy greatly benefits athletes, patients with compromised GI and Immune systems as well as patients with low energy and excess stress. We pride ourselves on setting the standards of patient care and result-driven treatments so our patients can return to health and live the life they intended. Contact us today for your first appointment!
