Intravenous (IV) therapy – a method of delivering fluids, nutrients, and medication directly into the bloodstream – has become popular. But for what reason? Primarily, it speeds up the process of nutrient delivery.
That said, you need to know the top benefits of this method. We’ve compiled the top six for you, supported by science and research.
1. Improved Hydration
Are you feeling constantly parched, experiencing dizziness, or noticing dark yellow urine? Your doctor might diagnose you with dehydration, which can manifest through other various symptoms like [1]:
- Persistent thirst
- Reduced frequency of urination
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth, lips, and tongue
- Sunken eyes
IV therapy helps with dehydration by delivering fluids directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system’s absorption process. This allows for quick and efficient rehydration of the body, especially in cases where oral intake is not sufficient or feasible.
While IV supplements play a vital role in treating dehydration, professionals may use them as a treatment for drug intoxication, cancer, and postural tachycardia syndrome [2].
2. Enhanced Nutrient Absorption
Proper nutrient absorption is vital for overall health, as deficiencies can lead to a myriad of unpleasant symptoms.
Nutrient deficits stemming from malabsorption issues or certain medical conditions can lead to various symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, and anemia. IV supplements like “banana bags” or “Myer’s cocktails” can provide a concentrated mix of vitamins and minerals for individuals requiring additional nutrient support [3].
While IV supplements have traditionally been utilized in clinical settings for nutrient deficits, their popularity has surged, and now, even healthy individuals are seeking their rejuvenating benefits. Whether in complementary medicine clinics or emergency departments, the trend is on the rise.
It’s no wonder private label supplement manufacturers are catching on to this wellness wave, offering a variety of IV supplements to cater to different needs.
3. Immune System Support
With IV therapy’s rapid nutrient absorption, the immune system can receive a significant boost. This boost isn’t limited to everyday individuals seeking wellness; even those with immune deficiencies can benefit.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is a concentrated form of pooled immunoglobulins obtained from numerous healthy donors. According to WebMD, IVIG is instrumental in treating various conditions, including [4]:
- Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
- Kawasaki disease
- Guillain-Barre syndrome
- Lupus
- Myositis
- Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
- Neurological diseases like myasthenia gravis or multiple sclerosis
- Individuals undergoing bone marrow transplants to prevent infections
IV supplements work by fortifying the immune system, especially in critical conditions where immunity needs reinforcement. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) draws from a diverse pool of donor (from 1,000 to 100,000 donors) antibodies, creating a robust defense against a spectrum of infectious agents and autoimmune responses [5].
4. Stress Reduction
IV therapy also offers a unique pathway to stress reduction by replenishing crucial nutrients that support the body’s stress response.
Research has shown that ketamine infusion, a form of IV therapy, can result in a significant and rapid decrease in symptom severity for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared to other medications like midazolam [6].
Note: Ketamine is a medication primarily used for anesthesia and pain management, but research has shown its effectiveness in treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD [7].
This reduction in symptoms was observed across various analyses and remained significant even after adjusting for depressive symptoms.
Meanwhile, the benefits of stress reduction achieved through IV therapy extend beyond symptom alleviation, positively impacting mental health and overall well-being. Here are some more of them:
- Rapid reduction in PTSD symptom severity
- Improvement in overall clinical presentation
- Reduction in comorbid depressive symptoms
- Positive impact on mental health and well-being
While IV therapy, including ketamine infusion, has shown promising results in reducing stress and improving mental health, it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized treatment plans and holistic mental health care.
5. Detoxification and Recovery Benefits
IV therapy plays a vital role in detoxifying the body by eliminating toxins and promoting overall well-being. Detoxification is essential for the body’s natural cleansing processes, aiding in maintaining optimal health. However, it’s important to note that various methods can also support the detox process, such as [8]:
- Fasting
- Consuming specific juices or beverages
- Following certain dietary restrictions
- Using herbal supplements or commercial products
- Colon cleansing methods like enemas or colon hydrotherapy
- Reducing environmental toxin exposure
- Utilizing saunas
While full-body detox plans aim to eliminate harmful substances from the body, the body’s natural detoxification pathways involving the liver, kidneys, digestive system, and skin also play crucial roles in eliminating toxins.
On top of that, IV supplements can also expedite the recovery process from various conditions, illnesses, or physical exertion. They can be particularly beneficial in situations like post-operative recovery, athletic injuries, or conditions requiring rapid nutrient replenishment for healing.
Before trying any treatment approaches for recovery or detoxification, note that you must consult a healthcare professional.
6. Customized Treatment Options
When working with a healthcare provider for IV therapy, personalized treatment options tailored to your unique health needs can be explored.
This individualized approach allows for optimal health outcomes and ensures that the treatment aligns with your specific requirements. Benefits of customized treatment options include:
- Targeted delivery of nutrients specific to your deficiencies
- Tailored treatment plans for your health goals
- Enhanced effectiveness of IV supplements due to personalized formulations
- Potential for improved overall health and well-being through customized care
Wrapping Up
The benefits of IV therapy highlighted in this article underscore its potential to enhance overall well-being.
These include improved hydration, enhanced nutrient absorption, immune system support, stress reduction, detoxification benefits, and customized treatment options – all delivered into your system without taking days.
It’s good news that incorporating IV therapy into your healthcare routine can lead to optimized health outcomes. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before undergoing IV supplementation to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.
At Legere Pharmaceuticals, we prioritize personalized care and offer a range of IV therapy options to meet your individual needs. Take the first step towards a healthier you. Contact us today to explore the benefits of IV therapy.
Dr .Taylor Froiland
President of Legere Pharmaceuticals
Taylor Froiland is the president of Legere Pharmaceuticals in Scottsdale, Arizona and serves on the Board of Directors for RK Logistics Group. He also owns and operates Medmetrics Compounding Pharmacy in Chandler, Arizona, specializing in various pharmaceutical services. Taylor holds a PharmD and has expertise in compounding, medicinal chemistry, and quality control.