What is IV Drip Therapy?
Intravenous (IV) drip therapy is the delivery of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. While part of an oral supplement may not be absorbed by the gut, the intravenous route aims to achieve higher and more predictable blood levels.
The drip is not a ready-made “package”; its content is determined by the doctor after assessing your complaints, lifestyle and blood tests.
How does it work?
The substances used play a role in processes such as cellular energy production, immune cell function, reducing oxidative stress and tissue repair.
For example, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant involved in the immune system and collagen production; NAD+ is a coenzyme involved in cellular energy production; and glutathione is one of the body’s main antioxidant defence systems.
When is it used?
- Weakness and fatigue (after other medical causes have been ruled out)
- Periods when immune support is needed
- Periods of intense stress and burnout
- Support for skin radiance and healthy ageing
- Support for detox and lifestyle protocols
- When oral supplements have not helped enough because of absorption problems
How is it done?
- 1First consultation and review of the relevant blood tests.
- 2Determining the personalised drip formula.
- 3The drip is given slowly through a vein while you sit in a comfortable chair.
- 4Return to daily life after the treatment.
- At the first consultation you are asked about chronic conditions, medications and allergies.
- Relevant blood tests (kidney function and, if needed, G6PD level) are reviewed.
- Drink plenty of water and eat a light meal on the day of treatment.
- A thin cannula is placed in a vein in your arm while you sit in a comfortable chair.
- The drip is given slowly over 30–60 minutes depending on the content.
- You are monitored by healthcare staff throughout.
- You can return to daily life straight away.
- There may be slight bruising at the cannula site.
- The frequency of sessions and length of the course are planned according to the initial assessment.
Drip ingredients
Possible side effects
- Mild pain or bruising at the cannula site
- A metallic taste or feeling of warmth during the drip
- Rarely an allergic reaction to the ingredients
Who is it not suitable for?
- Severe kidney or heart failure
- Allergy to any of the ingredients
- High-dose vitamin C in G6PD deficiency
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (after medical assessment)
Sources
- Carr AC, Maggini S. Vitamin C and immune function. Nutrients. 2017;9(11):1211.
- Covarrubias AJ, Perrone R, Grozio A, Verdin E. NAD+ metabolism and its roles in cellular processes during ageing. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 2021;22(2):119–141.
- Pizzorno J. Glutathione! Integr Med (Encinitas). 2014;13(1):8–12.
