At our IV Drip Clinic in London, we often get asked – what exactly is IV vitamin therapy, and is it right for me? Our experienced team is here to provide all the details you need to determine if IV drips could be a beneficial addition to your wellness routine.
What is IV Vitamin Therapy?
IV vitamin therapy is a method of delivering vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients directly into your bloodstream using an intravenous (IV) drip. This allows the nutrients to bypass your digestive system and go straight to work optimizing your health.
During an IV vitamin session, you’ll have a small catheter placed in your arm through which a customized blend of vitamins and nutrients can be slowly administered. Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes. The biggest advantage of IV therapy is the increased absorption – when you take vitamins orally, your body only absorbs 10-20% of the nutrients. But IV therapy has an absorption rate of 90-100%!
Who Can Benefit from IV Vitamin Therapy?
While anyone can receive the perks of IV vitamin therapy, some can benefit more than others. Here are the main groups we see utilizing our IV drips:
Those with Nutritional Deficiencies
IV therapy is an excellent way to correct any vitamin and mineral deficiencies you may have. Nutrient deficiencies can cause fatigue, weakened immunity, muscle cramps, poor concentration, and more. Our experienced staff can test your levels and create custom IV treatments to restore your nutrients to optimal levels.
Athletes & Active Individuals
If you live an active lifestyle or regularly participate in sports, IV therapy is a game changer. The nutrients delivered can boost energy levels, speed muscle recovery, hydrate the body, and reduce inflammation. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or training for a marathon, IV drips can help take your performance to the next level.
Those with Poor Diets
Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can sometimes be difficult to achieve. If your diet is lacking in any way, IV vitamin therapy can fill in the gaps and provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs. Improving your diet along with IV therapy works wonders!
Those Looking to Boost Immunity
IV drips packed with vitamin C, zinc, and other immune boosters can help keep illness at bay. If you find yourself catching every cold and flu that floats around, IV therapy is a proactive way to boost your immunity and stay healthy.
Those Recovering From Illness or Surgery
IV vitamins can expedite healing and recovery time after a prolonged illness, surgery, or hospital stay where nutrient levels may have been depleted. Optimizing your vitamin and mineral levels can help get you back on your feet faster.
What to Expect During Your IV Vitamin Session
Your experience at our IV Drip Clinic begins with a free consultation. This gives us a chance to learn about your health goals and tailor the perfect IV vitamin therapy plan. We’ll check for any contraindications, draw needed bloodwork, and recommend a vitamin blend based on your individual needs.
When you come in for your treatment, our certified nurses will walk you through the simple and comfortable IV insertion process. Many of our patients bring a book or work on their laptops during the 30-60 minute session. You can expect some or all of the following:
- Insertion of a small IV catheter into your arm
- Infusion of customized vitamins, minerals, and nutrients
- Recommendations for food and water intake before and after
- Periodic monitoring of your response by our nurses
IV therapy is extremely safe when administered by our experienced staff. Possible (but rare) side effects include bruising at the injection site or temporary lightheadedness/dizziness. Let your nurse know if you feel any discomfort during your session.
IV Vitamin Therapy Options Offered
We offer an extensive menu of IV vitamin blends to suit a wide range of health goals. A few of our most popular options include:
The Immunity Booster
Packs a punch of vitamin C, zinc, glutathione, and B vitamins to supercharge your immune system. Excellent during cold season or when traveling.
The Athletic Performance Drip
Contains key nutrients like B12, magnesium, calcium, and anti-inflammatory amino acids. Speeds muscle recovery, increases energy, and reduces workout fatigue.
The Hydration Helper
Isotonic fluids and electrolytes rehydrate the body fast. Fantastic for battling migraines, fatigue, nausea, and recovering from a night out.
The Anti-Aging Drip
A powerful combo of antioxidants like glutathione and vitamin C to slow aging, detox the body, and give skin a healthy glow.
The Jet Lag Eraser
Helps reset your circadian rhythms after long flights. Packed with B vitamins, magnesium, and vitamin C to conquer fatigue.
And many more custom formulations! Your nurse will help you select the optimal IV therapy to fit your needs.
After Your IV Vitamin Therapy Session
Immediately after your session, be sure to drink plenty of water to continue flushing nutrients through your system. Some patients experience increased energy and mental clarity within hours. Changes to sleep, immunity, skin, or recovery time take a bit longer to notice.
It’s normal to have some minor bruising or tenderness where the IV was inserted. If you experience any headache or nausea, please alert our staff. Benefits from your IV vitamin therapy last approximately 3-10 days depending on the individual. We recommend scheduling sessions every 1-2 weeks to continually build your nutrient levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IV vitamin therapy safe? Yes! It is extremely safe when properly administered by our licensed professionals. We only use sterile equipment and take every necessary precaution.
How long do IV vitamin therapy benefits last? Results vary by individual, but you can typically expect to feel the effects for 3-10 days before another dose is needed. Those with vitamin deficiencies or illness may need more frequent sessions.
How is this different than taking oral vitamins? IV therapy has an absorption rate of 90-100% compared to just 10-20% for oral vitamins. IV delivers nutrients right into the bloodstream for faster results.
How soon will I feel results? Many feel an energy boost immediately after their first IV session. Benefits like improved immunity, reduced inflammation, and better sleep emerge over several weeks of consistent treatments.
Will my insurance cover IV vitamin therapy? Most insurance policies do not cover IV therapy services as they are considered preventative. Check with your provider to learn about reimbursement eligibility if you have a vitamin deficiency.
Is there anyone who should NOT get IV vitamin therapy? Yes, there are some contraindications. Patients who should avoid IV therapy include: those with kidney disease, certain cardiac conditions, fluid restrictions, or hypercalcemia.
Give IV Vitamin Therapy a Try
Our experienced staff is ready to help you determine if IV vitamin therapy could be a helpful addition to your health and wellness routine. We offer complimentary consultations, flexible booking, and patient-centered care. To learn more or schedule your first IV therapy session in London, book your appointment online or give us a call at 020 8144 8193. We look forward to welcoming you!