Quick Answer
An IV therapy appointment usually includes a health screening, placement of a small catheter in a vein, a drip that typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes and a short check before you leave. Screening is the most important step, because IV therapy is not safe for everyone. People with heart or kidney disease, those who are pregnant and those taking certain medications should check with a provider first.
Who this is for: adults considering IV therapy who want to know what to expect and whether they should check with a provider before booking.
Before Your Appointment
- Eat a light meal and drink some water beforehand, unless told otherwise, which can make vein access easier and reduce lightheadedness
- Bring a list of your medications, supplements and allergies
- Wear a top with sleeves that roll up easily
- Plan to sit for about an hour
What Happens During the Visit
Health screening
A clinician reviews your health history, medications, allergies and reason for the visit, and checks vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate. This helps decide whether IV therapy is appropriate and which ingredients and fluid amount are safe for you.
Starting the IV
A small, flexible tube called a catheter is placed into a vein, usually in the arm or hand, using a needle that is removed once the catheter is in place. You may feel a brief pinch.
The infusion
Fluids and any added nutrients drip slowly into the vein, typically over 30 to 60 minutes. You can relax, read or use your phone. Some ingredients can cause a temporary taste in the mouth or a warm sensation. Tell the staff right away if you feel unwell.
Afterward
The catheter is removed, pressure is applied and a small bandage is placed. Staff will check how you feel before you go. Most people return to normal activities right away.
Screening comes first at every IV therapy appointment.
Who Should Check With a Provider First
IV therapy may not be appropriate, or may need special adjustments, for people who:
- Have heart failure or other heart conditions
- Have kidney disease
- Have uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Take medications that affect fluids, electrolytes or blood clotting
- Have certain genetic enzyme conditions, such as G6PD deficiency, which matters for high-dose vitamin C
- Have had reactions to IV treatments or ingredients in the past
More is not always better with nutrients, and some can build up in the body.[1]
Possible Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and short-lived, such as bruising, soreness at the IV site or lightheadedness. Less commonly, the vein can become irritated or inflamed. Infection and allergic reactions are rare, especially when treatment is given by trained staff using sterile technique.
How IV Therapy Works at Lake Forest Regenesis
Every IV and injection treatment starts with a health review under Allana’s oversight. Your history, medications and goals are considered to decide whether IV therapy is appropriate, which treatment makes sense and whether an oral option or no treatment at all is the better choice. If IV therapy is not a good fit, you will be told why.
When to See a Provider
After an IV treatment, seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, swelling or pain at the IV site, fever, or a hard, painful cord along the vein. Call 911 for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, chest pain or fainting.
Curious about IV therapy? Every treatment starts with a health review to see whether it fits, or whether another option is better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does IV therapy hurt?
Most people feel a brief pinch when the IV is placed and little or no discomfort during the infusion.
How long does an IV appointment take?
Most visits take about an hour, including screening, the infusion and a short check afterward.
Can I drive after IV therapy?
Most people can, but if you feel lightheaded or unwell, wait until you feel normal or arrange a ride.
Do I need labs before IV therapy?
Not always, but labs may be recommended if you have certain health conditions or if a deficiency is suspected.
References
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Dietary supplements: what you need to know. Read the fact sheet
- MedlinePlus. Dehydration. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Read the article
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.
