IV Support Therapies

What IV support therapy is

In IV support therapy, components such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids are given intravenously in an infusion. Glutathione and vitamin C are the most frequently discussed of them.

A distinction that has to come first

The commonest error in this field is presenting IV support as a general wellness treatment. The accurate framing is this: IV support is meaningful where it addresses a documented deficiency or a defined medical need.

For that reason an assessment is carried out beforehand, with blood tests where indicated. Giving high-dose vitamins to someone who is not deficient does not confer benefit, and for some components an unnecessarily high dose can do harm.

Where a need could be met through diet, that route is discussed first. The intravenous route is chosen in specific situations, such as an absorption problem or where rapid replacement is required.

How it is given

Depending on its contents the infusion takes around 30–60 minutes and is given seated. You remain under observation throughout. How often sessions are repeated depends on the need; an open-ended ongoing programme is not something we recommend.

The components most often discussed

Glutathione is a molecule found naturally in the body that takes part in antioxidant defence. Vitamin C is required for connective tissue and immune function. B vitamins, magnesium and zinc are considered for replacement where there is a deficiency.

Which component, at what dose and how often, is decided individually. Rather than an off-the-shelf mixture given to everyone in the same way, the contents are planned according to what the assessment shows.

What matters for safety

An intravenous treatment may look simple, but it is a medical procedure and belongs under a physician's supervision.

Care is required in impaired kidney function, in heart failure, and in any condition sensitive to fluid load. High-dose vitamin C can cause haemolysis in people with G6PD enzyme deficiency, so that deficiency is asked about before treatment.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding, known allergies and your current medications are all assessed separately. Please share all medications and supplements at the consultation.