Considering IV Therapy for Anti-aging? Things you need to know

IV therapy, short for intravenous therapy, involves delivering fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a vein. This rapid absorption method can be used for various purposes, including hydration, medications, and various alternative medicine treatments. Nutrient IV therapy is often used in cases where oral intake is compromised or when higher doses are needed. 

It’s an attractive method for older people in particular because it bypasses the digestive system. As we age, digestion and absorption of many important nutrients tends to taper off. Many people have a harder time digesting and absorbing all the nutrients needed. 

Most nutrients interact with one another internally for proper healthy bodily functions, but when some nutrients are lacking or at low levels, body processes can slow down. When this happens, health can become compromised. To avoid this and to optimize healthy processes, even generally healthy people have turned to putting critical nutrients directly into the bloodstream, calling it IV therapy for anti-aging. Anti-aging IV therapy often includes the antioxidant glutathione, which is less plentiful in the body as we age. 

Getting a big boost of nutrients and antioxidants sounds great, but there are risks involved that should be considered before opening your veins. 

Nutrition through diet, orally, is still considered the best way to meet nutritional needs. IV therapy is generally reserved for seriously ill or nutrient deficient patients.

IV therapy has gained popularity in some circles as a potential anti-aging treatment, with claims that it can improve skin health, increase energy levels, and promote overall wellness. Proponents of IV therapy for anti-aging often cite the infusion of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream as a way to address deficiencies and support cellular health. However, there is little scientific evidence to support the idea that IV therapy can reverse the aging process or provide significant anti-aging benefits beyond what can be achieved through a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Some IV therapies are marketed as detox treatments, claiming to flush out toxins from the body and improve overall health. However, the scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of these treatments is limited.

IV therapy is typically administered by trained healthcare professionals. It is essential to ensure proper sterile technique and monitoring to minimize the risk of complications such as infection, vein irritation, damage, collapse, ‘blow out.’ 

While IV therapy may be beneficial for addressing specific medical conditions or nutritional deficiencies under the guidance of a healthcare professional, it's essential to approach claims of anti-aging benefits with awareness.

Some potential risks and considerations associated with IV therapy for anti-aging include:

1. Lack of regulation:

IV therapy for anti-aging purposes is often offered in wellness clinics and spas, where regulations may be lax, and the qualifications of providers may vary. This can increase the risk of improper administration or other problems.

2. Potential side effects and complications:

These are rare, but your practitioner may not tell you all the risks. IV therapy carries risks including infection, nutrient imbalances, allergic reactions, kidney stress, vein irritation, vein collapse, or blood clots. Vein damage, including collapse, blow out, or irritation can happen if you’ve had many needle sticks or vein damage in the past. It can also happen if the needle is too large. If the IV practitioner is experienced, they may be better at choosing the right needle and at other factors in protecting your vein health. Although problems are uncommon, you should be aware so you can weigh the risks and rewards for yourself.

3. Cost:

IV therapy for anti-aging purposes can be expensive, and the out-of-pocket cost may not be justified by any proven benefits. Treatments usually range from $100 to $400. While the care provider may be someone you trust, IV therapy could be a money-maker that’s hard to resist for some clinics.

4. Everyone is different:

The effectiveness of IV therapy for anti-aging may vary depending on factors such as overall health status, genetics, lifestyle factors, and underlying medical conditions.

5. Skill level of the person administering the IV: 

Before you decide to get IV therapy, it’s best practice to find out what their qualifications are. IV is an invasive process that takes training and experience to administer properly. 

6. Lack of individual attention:

An IV drip can take an hour, sometimes longer, and should be monitored. There should be enough workers to give adequate attention to all patients. Many clinics have several IVs happening at the same time with minimal staff to administer and monitor them all.

Even if it’s a clinic you trust, IV therapy may not be up to the standard you expect. If you get there and don’t feel comfortable, it’s alright to check out. It’s better to be safe than to risk an injury trying to be healthy. It’s not without risks that should be considered.

IV nutrition therapy is very helpful in certain instances. For anything other than a medical need, it may be more trouble than it’s worth.

Sources

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00404-022-06768-x

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27642056/

https://journals.rcni.com//doi/abs/10.7748/ns2007.09.22.1.44.c4613