IV therapy involves inserting a small catheter into a vein, usually in the hand or forearm, through which fluids, vitamins, minerals and other substances are delivered directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the gut for near-complete absorption. Potential benefits include faster fluid and electrolyte balance, immediate cellular uptake of nutrients, and support for recovery, immunity and energy.
Possible risks include infiltration, phlebitis, bruising, infection, air embolism, allergic reaction, fluid overload and nerve irritation. No medical procedure is risk-free; rare complications may need emergency care.
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Intravenous (IV) therapy involves the insertion of a small catheter into a peripheral vein, typically in the hand or forearm, through which fluids, vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, amino acids, medications and/or other compounded substances are administered directly into the bloodstream. The procedure bypasses the gastrointestinal system, resulting in near 100% bioavailability of all administered substances. Potential benefits include rapid restoration of fluid and electrolyte balance; enhanced delivery of vitamins and minerals with immediate cellular uptake; accelerated recovery from illness, dehydration or physical exertion; support for immune function, energy production and anti-ageing protocols; and improved absorption compared with oral supplementation.
I understand that IV therapy carries the following potential risks, which have been fully explained to me. Infiltration — IV fluid leaks into surrounding tissues, causing local swelling and discomfort or pain. Phlebitis — inflammation of the vein, with redness, warmth and pain at the insertion site. Haematoma — bruising or blood pooling at the IV site following catheter insertion. Infection or sepsis — localised or systemic infection, risk reduced using an aseptic technique. Extravasation — leakage of irritating substances into tissue, potentially causing damage. Air embolism — introduction of air into the bloodstream, minimised through proper line priming. Allergic or anaphylactic reaction — severe hypersensitivity requiring emergency intervention. Fluid overload — excessive fluid administration, particularly dangerous in cardiac or renal disease. Nerve injury — inadvertent needle contact with nearby nerves, with possible neurological symptoms. I understand that no medical procedure is risk-free. Possible risks of additives can include, but are not limited to, dizziness or fainting, nausea, headache, electrolyte imbalance, medication or vitamin reactions, and other unforeseen complications. Rare complications may be serious and may require emergency medical treatment or hospitalisation.