Dr. Okoro spoke to Community Impact about how IV therapy works, the potential risks and what individuals seeking this treatment may need to know. Responses have been edited for length, clarity and style.
How does IV therapy work?
IV therapy is essentially a quick infusion of water in the form of saline, associated with some electrolytes, vitamins and other minerals, but it goes directly into the bloodstream. It’s typically used for rehydration in the outpatient setting, and has a variety of uses in the hospital.
Are there health benefits to IV therapy? What are they?
There is no research that really supports that IV vitamin hydration provides clear health benefits. I think overall, there's been an increase in interest in wellness, alternative medicine and fitness, and IV hydration has found its landing place within that.
Why do you think IV therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years?
I think the marketing behind it has been huge. You see a lot of celebrities doing it, and I think in general, there's an increased interest in wellness, fitness and alternative medicine. Most commonly you see IV therapy promoted right after drinking alcohol or right after excessive exercise, and so it can really help with the symptoms you feel from dehydration, fatigue, lethargy [and] headaches.
Are there potential negative side effects? What are they?
If you have medical problems involving the heart or kidneys, your body may not handle a rapid infusion of fluid. It can cause what we call an overload, and that can create a total new variety of problems. You're also getting additional electrolytes, but you don't already know where your electrolytes levels are. A rapid infusion could cause some vitamin toxicity or sort of a worsening electrolyte imbalance. Anybody who's interested in IV therapy needs to make sure they speak with their doctor ahead of time to make sure they're at appropriate health to tolerate any sort of additional infusions.
If someone is considering receiving IV therapy, what should they look for in a clinic to ensure they are safe?
I think you need to make sure you're getting it from a safe and clean environment. I think you need to be comfortable with the person who's going to be sticking you with the needle, to make sure they have experience. You also need to make sure you have a good understanding of what's in these bags that you're getting. With the growth and popularity of it, there are a variety of IV bag cocktails, and people may not always really understand some of the names that are in these infusions and treatments that they're getting. If you have a medical doctor or medical provider, please consult them first and make sure that you're appropriate for any sort of IV hydration.
Are there any misconceptions around this treatment?
I think it's best to view it as a supplement. It's not a treatment. It's not curative, and it's not FDA-approved or research-supported. You have to ask yourself about the benefits and why you're doing it.
