About Vitamin IV Therapy:
Vitamin IV therapy involves the administration of vitamins and minerals directly into your bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line. This procedure is intended to support wellness and address nutrient deficiencies, and has not been proven to treat any medical conditions.
Effectiveness of IV Vitamin:
I am aware that there are very few studies that have tested the effectiveness of IV therapy in people who do not have a vitamin or mineral deficiency. There is also no published evidence that this therapy is an effective treatment for any serious illness or chronic disease.
Injection of individual vitamins or minerals are evidence-based treatment for people with deficiencies of these nutrients. It is also used in the medical field to manage the side effects of certain medications. (Like treating magnesium sulhate overload in pregnancy)
The evidence also shows that the best way to obtain vitamins, minerals and other nutrients is through the diet. Vitamin supplemntation can also be done by ingesting it in an oral formulation.
IV therapy is done as immune or health support and is not an effective treatment for cancer, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia or any other health condition.
Potential Risks and Side Effects:
Possible risks include discomfort at the injection site, bruising, infection, vein irritation, allergic reactions (that could be severe and lead to death) or other unforeseen side effects. It is important to notify your provider of any allergies or medical conditions prior to treatment.
Side effects of vitamin therapy:
Minor: discomfort, bruising, pain at the injection site
Occasional: stomach cramps, diarrhea, dizziness, phlebitis, muscle and body pain, depression.
Rare: Abnormality of electrolytes and minerals leading to muscle weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, diarrhea.
In people with hypertension or heart disease IV fluid can lead to fluid overload which could damage the brain, kidneys or heart.
Risk for vasovagal syncope, dizziness caused by a drop in blood pressure.
Limited studies have reported side effects like depression, insomnia and upset stomach.
Excess vitamins can be harmful:
It is known that Thiamine in high dose can cause anaphylaxis and Vitamin B6 overdose could cause peripheral neuropathy.
The safety of IV vitamins in pregnancy or breastfeeding women has not been established
There is a risk of anaphylaxis, a serious life-threatening reaction to medication.
Infection, blood clots, water intoxication, cardiac arrest and death.
Drug interactions:
Vitamin B6 can interact with erythropoietin used in Chronic Kidney Disaease (CKD) or cancer treatment.
Magnesium may interact with antihypertensives leading to low blood pressure.
The Health Authorities (FDA)
Recommends against the use of IV Vitamin therapy, because none of the claimed health benefits have been confirmed, and the safety of this therapy is unclear.
Claims for IV Vitmain Therapy
Based on anecdotal evidence (claims from indivuals not part of a randomised controlled trial), there are health and wellness benfits of receiving intravenous vitamin and mineral supplementation, such as:
Treat hydration:
Recover from hangover
Replenish electrolytes after extreme exercise
Increase energy levels and reduce fatigue
Relieve stress, anxiety and depression
Eliminate toxins from the body
Make skin healthier
Improve symptoms related to chronic disease states
Improve tension headaches
Consent:
By signing below, you confirm that you have read and understood the information provided, had the opportunity to ask questions, and voluntarily consent to receive vitamin IV therapy.