TOP QUESTIONS

Why IV???

Theoretical Basis for IV Nutrient Therapy

Intravenous administration of nutrients can achieve serum concentrations not obtainable with oral, or even intramuscular (IM), administration. For example, as the oral dose of vitamin C is increased progressively, the serum concentration of ascorbate tends to approach an upper limit, as a result of both saturation of gastrointestinal absorption and a sharp increase in renal clearance of the vitamin. When the daily intake of vitamin C is increased 12-fold, from 200 mg/day to 2,500 mg/day, the plasma concentration increases by only 25 percent, from 1.2 to 1.5 mg/dL. The highest serum vitamin C level reported after oral administration of pharmacological doses of the vitamin is 9.3 mg/dL. In contrast, IV administration of 50 g/day of vitamin C resulted in a mean peak plasma level of 80 mg/dL. Similarly, oral supplementation with magnesium results in little or no change in serum magnesium concentrations, whereas IV administration can double or triple the serum levels at least for a short period of time.

Various nutrients have been shown to exert pharmacological effects, which are in many cases dependent on the concentration of the nutrient. For example, an antiviral effect of vitamin C has been demonstrated at a concentration of 10- 15 mg/dL, a level achievable with IV but not oral therapy. At a concentration of 88 mg/dL in vitro, vitamin C destroyed 72 percent of the histamine present in the medium. Lower concentrations were not tested, but it is possible the serum levels of vitamin C attainable by giving several grams in an IV push would produce an antihistamine effect in vivo. Such an effect would have implications for the treatment of various allergic conditions.

What do I do to prepare for IV treatments?

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

It’s not easy to palpate veins when you are dehydrated. It is always good to have fluids (water) in your system, it helps us find those juicy veins much easier. Try to remember to take extra fluids (as permitted by your condition or doctor) a few days before your infusion therapy. Don’t wait till the night before to hydrate, it will keep you from having a good night’s sleep. Avoid alcoholic drinks, just stick to water.

Dry heat improves the success of IV insertion!

YES, it is true. Don’t be shy to ask your infusion nurse to apply dry heat to your arm/hand to assist in finding your veins. The use of heat increases blood flow allowing for good venous dilatation, thus improved vein visualization. Simply stated, it helps the nurse find “juicy veins”.

The time to complete your infusion will depend on many factors including the type and volume of your prescribed protocol along with your individual drip rate. The average infusion time is generally 90 minutes. Many patients nap, listen to music via earbuds or read while receiving their IV Therapy.

Post-Treatment:

Drink plenty of fluids (unless restricted by your doctor). It may be helpful to eat a small meal or protein rich snack following IV Therapy to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar.

Remember, IV Therapy solutions are premixed for each individual patient.

Do you accept insurances?

We would love to accept your insurance but unfortunately most insurance companies do not appreciate the importance of alternative, functional, and preventative health care. With requess you will be provided a detailed invoice after your visit which you may submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Christian based insurance usually accept without any issues.