Can IV Drip Therapy Improve Well-Being?
This intriguing medical innovation promises a plethora of health benefits, leaving many curious minds wondering: What magic lies within those IV bags, and is it truly transformative? In an exploration of the scientific realms of IV drip therapy, we talked to Dr. Anant Vinjamoori, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Modern Age and Harvard-trained longevity expert.
Dr. Vinjamoori told Healthnews, "IV drip therapy is an efficient way to deliver nutrients directly into the bloodstream, potentially achieving higher therapeutic impacts compared to oral supplements."
What is IV drip therapy?
How does IV drip therapy work?
- The healthcare professional sterilizes the area around the vein in the arm where they will insert the IV needle.
- Then begins the administration of the chosen “cocktail” of vitamins or nutrients from the IV bag.
- After completing the therapy session, the IV needle is removed, and the site is carefully bandaged.
What is in an IV solution?
Common components of IV solutions include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, and electrolytes. For example, vitamin C, known for its immune-boosting properties, is often included in IV drips. Other substances like NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) may be used to potentially support cellular energy production, fight addiction, and promote overall vitality.
How long does IV drip therapy take?
The duration of IV drip therapy can vary based on different factors, including the type of therapy, the specific substances being administered, the individual's health condition, and the treatment goals.However, in general, most sessions last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. While a vitamin IV may take about an hour, a high-dose NAD push can last up to four to five hours.
Potential benefits of IV drip therapy
Dr. Vinjamoori noted, "The potential benefits of IV drip therapy vary widely and depend on the patient's goals, issues, and the specific treatment chosen."While scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of IV drip therapy is limited, many individuals report experiencing increased energy, improved mental clarity, enhanced exercise performance, and reduced inflammation. Additionally, it may be beneficial for individuals with digestive disorders that hinder nutrient absorption, as it provides a direct supply of essential vitamins and minerals.
Dr. Vinjamoori underscored that IV drip therapy has not been extensively studied in formal research.
He said, noting that there is a reasonable amount of research around high-dose IV vitamin C for treating various inflammatory conditions, but a broader perspective relies on clinician observations and experiences.
It’s also been a go-to recovery modality after a boozy night out. When consumed in excess, alcohol can lead to dehydration and the depletion of vitamins and minerals, contributing to the unpleasant symptoms of a hangover, such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. An IV drip may help speed up the recovery process by helping to rapidly replenish electrolytes and vitamins.
Be aware of the placebo effect
Due to the lack of scientific literature regarding the efficacy of IV drip therapy, one must consider the potential for individual placebo effect. One study, a randomized pilot study, investigated the effect of the Myers cocktail against a placebo IV drip on 34 fibromyalgia syndrome patients for eight weeks with weekly IVs.
Researchers found that both groups reported fewer tender points. However, the symptom improvement between Myers cocktail and placebo group did not differ meaning that IV applicability is still to be determined.
Potential risks of IV drip therapy
As with any medical treatment, especially as invasive as IV therapy, it is essential to consider the potential risks and limitations.
The primary risks usually pertain to the IV insertion itself, where skin irritation or, rarely, infection may occur.
It is important that the therapy is administered by qualified healthcare professionals following the appropriate protocols. Furthermore, IV drip therapy should not replace conventional medical treatments or medications without proper medical supervision.
Dr. Vinjamoori further explained that certain health conditions may be at higher risk of complications. “I would advise against IV therapies for individuals with significant problems with their heart, kidneys, or liver, as they may be at risk due to their ability to handle large amounts of fluid. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in IV therapy to assess suitability and potential interactions,” he said, adding, “In our experience, and within the field, no potential long-term negative effects have been observed as long as these conditions are avoided.”
Personalization and individualized treatment
While many clinics have a select list of IV therapy options with predetermined ingredients, customization adds a nice touch of customer experience. By customizing the IV solution, treatment frequency, and duration, healthcare professionals can optimize the therapy's effectiveness and address specific health concerns.
How often should you receive IV drip therapy?
As with many medical interventions, the answer starts with: it depends.
Dr. Vinjamoori explained, “The recommended frequency and duration depend on what we're aiming to achieve and the specific treatment being used,” he said, adding that it could range from weekly sessions for several months to monthly appointments. “It’s all very specific to the individual's health goals and treatment plan,” he said.
Is it worth getting IV drip therapy?
IV drip therapy offers a unique approach to nutrient supplementation, bypassing the limitations of oral supplements and providing direct access to essential vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial substances. While the scientific evidence supporting IV drip therapy is still emerging, there are many anecdotal positive experiences and benefits. However, it is advised to approach IV drip therapy with caution, seeking guidance from qualified healthcare professionals and ensuring the therapy is administered safely and responsibly. Furthermore, IV drip therapy should not be used as a means to replace dietary intake of essential nutrients but rather as an option for those suffering from severe deficiencies.
Is NAD IV Therapy The Most Efficient Way To Increase NAD Levels?
We know that NAD plays a vital role in maintaining healthy brain function, regulation of the nervous system, metabolism, and the body's ability to repair damage as we age. But what is NAD IV therapy and how does it work?
This type of treatment is widely used to increase NAD levels in the body with minimal to no side effects. But is it the most efficient way? In this article, we will cover how NAD IV therapy works and discuss its effectiveness and alternatives, such as NAD+ supplements.
How does NAD IV therapy work?
There are a handful of ways to administer NAD+ to the body. The most popular way is intravenous therapy and here is how it works in more detail:- Intravenous therapy bypasses the digestive system and delivers this coenzyme directly to the bloodstream.
- Once there, NAD+ binds to proteins in your body. Together, they form the active niacin vitamin B3 that is responsible for revitalizing your cells.
- Through this process, it is widely understood that NAD+ therapy restores the body on a cellular level.
NAD is an essential molecule, needed throughout the entire body for healthy functioning. It assists in converting food to energy, repairing damaged DNA, and protecting from aging and disease. NAD exists naturally in the body but can become depleted by the deficiency of vitamins, the occurrence of disease, and addiction.
NAD+ IV therapy introduces this molecule to the body to improve the function of the cells, and immediate results are often reported.
NAD therapy: what options are available?
Intravenous therapy
Administers NAD+ directly to your bloodstream through your vein. With IV therapy, your NAD levels will immediately increase and many people report feeling the effects right away. Therapy takes place at a clinic and lasts 2–4 hours. During this time, a bag of NAD+ and saline is delivered directly into a vein, keeping you hydrated throughout the process.
Injections
Many people opt for NAD+ injections because they can be administered at home, by yourself, and don’t require an appointment. Injections also bypass the digestive system and land directly into your bloodstream. To receive injections at home, you must complete a physical examination with a doctor or schedule a telehealth consultation.
Nasal sprays
If you aren’t comfortable with needles, nasal sprays are a good option. Nasal sprays can be administered at home and are the least expensive form of NAD therapy. Because the nasal passage is a direct route to the brain, bypassing the bloodstream, many experts speculate that NAD+ nasal sprays uniquely target brain health. One study showed that nasal spray treatment immediately improved brain damage in rats, but research on humans is needed.
NAD IV therapy benefits for the body
Better effects on mental health
NAD IV therapy benefits cognitive function as well. Brain fog, mental fatigue, and mood disorders are often treated this way, and research is underway to understand the relationship between NAD levels and neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Research shows that people with low levels of the enzyme known as sirtuins (SIRT), which protects the nervous system and brain, show higher rates of anxiety. NAD+ activates this enzyme. In addition to SIRT, experts are researching the relationship between oxidative stress, which is also correlated with anxiety and depression, and NAD+ IV therapy. Because of this research, many people find success in using NAD IV therapy for anxiety.
Increases energy production
NAD IV therapy increases energy levels, fights fatigue, and boosts your metabolism, which suggests that it can support weight loss. Some promising research also suggests that raising NAD+ levels can help the body fight off viruses, making it an object of interest for recovery from COVID symptoms.
Helps with addiction recovery, reduces drawbacks
NAD+ IV therapy is widely used in addiction treatment centers and recovery communities to assist in removing cravings, making withdrawal a bearable process, and preventing a relapse. Several studies have shown that NAD+ IV therapy is safe and effective in helping the brain to recover from damage caused by addiction, but more research is needed to understand how it works to eliminate cravings.
NAD IV therapy vs NMN: are they different?
| NMN | NAD IV therapy | |
| Benefits |
|
|
| Disadvantages |
|
|
How often should I get NAD IV therapy?
While NAD levels rise immediately after treatment, they often fall in the following 4-14 days. Some people receive treatment every day, some every few days, and some as little as twice a year.
What is the dosage for NAD IV therapy?
However, some people may receive as little as 100 mg, while others may need higher doses, like 2000 mg.
Can NAD IV therapy cause side effects?
- Cramping or pain in the abdominal area;
- Headaches;
- Nausea;
- Diarrhea;
- Indigestion;
- Fatigue;
- Brain fog;
- Tenderness or bruising at the injection site;
- Phlebitis (rare).
If you experience side effects during your IV treatment, the drip can be adjusted.
NAD IV therapy contraindications – who should not consider it?
- Chronic kidney disease;
- Grave’s disease;
- Myasthenia gravis;
- Diabetes insipidus;
- Prior superficial thrombophlebitis;
- Blood clotting disorders;
- Previous head injuries.
Key takeaways:
- IV therapy delivers nutrients directly into the bloodstream, potentially offering significant benefits.
- Personalization of the IV formula adds a nice touch in optimizing IV treatments.
- IV drips may help with hangover symptoms, vitamin deficiencies, and more, but their efficacy is yet to be determined.
- IV therapy should always be administered safely and under professional guidance.
Comments
Post a Comment