With Josie L. Tenore, MD, Trevi Longevity & Aesthetics

IV therapy is a treatment growing in popularity in wellness clinics and med spas, but is IV therapy safe? Intravenous (IV) therapy involves delivering fluids, medications and/or nutrients directly into a patient’s bloodstream through a vein and can be used for various purposes such as hydration, vitamin supplementation and many wellness treatments. Though it may on the surface seem to be one of the more non-invasive procedures available, it is still medical treatment and should involve the same standard of care as other forms of medicine. When administered by a trained and responsible clinician, IV therapy can be a safe treatment providing many benefits to patients.

Josie L. Tenore, MD, of Trevi Longevity & Aesthetics, shares her insight on the safety of IV therapy and how med spas keep patients safe when administering IV therapy treatments.

Click here to read an overview of the safety of top non-invasive medical aesthetic treatments.

How Safe is IV Therapy?

Dr. Tenore: “IV therapy has a long-standing history in medicine and has proven to be beneficial in many contexts. If you’ve ever visited an emergency room, you might have seen or heard of ‘banana bags,’ which are IV bags containing a mixture of vitamins and electrolytes. These are commonly used for patients who are dehydrated or intoxicated, often as a remedy for hangovers or nutrient deficiencies.

“Another notable IV therapy is the Myers' Cocktail, created in 1954 by Dr. John Myers in Baltimore. This blend, originally formulated to address chronic conditions like asthma, fibromyalgia, migraines, and fatigue, typically includes a mix of Vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, and magnesium. Today, many IV therapy formulas have evolved from Myers' original cocktail, with modern variations including additional vitamins and nutrients based on individual needs and goals.

“Today, IV therapy is widely available in medical spas and infusion centers, offering various blends and stand-alone nutrients. Depending on the specific formula, IV therapy aims to support diverse wellness goals—such as boosting energy, enhancing immunity, improving mental clarity, speeding up exercise recovery, supporting skin and nail health, and even promoting anti-aging effects.

“While IV therapy has a strong safety record, it’s essential to seek treatment in reputable facilities where healthcare providers are trained to tailor formulas to each person’s health needs. Proper screening and care ensure the highest safety standards, maximizing the potential benefits of this increasingly popular wellness therapy.”

What Do Med Spas Do to Keep Patients Safe During IV Therapy?

Dr. Tenore: “For IV therapy to be administered safely, reputable medical spas follow strict protocols, starting with an initial screening and good faith exam by a nurse practitioner or qualified medical provider. During this assessment, the provider determines whether IV therapy is appropriate for each patient, taking into account their medical history, current medications, and overall health. If IV therapy is deemed suitable, a tailored protocol is developed for that individual, ensuring the ingredients and dosage align with their wellness goals and safety requirements.

How Do Providers Safely Administer IV Therapy? Do Providers Need Specialized Training?

Dr. Tenore: “Typically, the intravenous line is placed by experienced healthcare professionals, often registered nurses with emergency room or intensive care backgrounds. Some medical spas also employ certified medical assistants who have undergone IV-specific training. Providers administering IV therapy are often trained to handle potential complications and ensure precise dosing, contributing to a safe and effective experience for patients.

“To maintain the highest standards of safety, reputable med spas and infusion centers have protocols to confirm the contents of each IV bag. Two staff members generally verify all ingredients prior to infusion, preventing potential errors and enhancing patient safety. 

“During the infusion process, providers carefully monitor the patient’s blood pressure and vital signs at multiple points—before, during, and after the treatment—to ensure a positive experience and respond promptly to any changes.”

How Do You Recommend Patients Find Safe Providers for IV Therapy?

Dr. Tenore: “Safety in IV therapy varies by state, as regulations differ on which professionals need to be present during administration. This means that who is required to be in the office can change depending on where you live.

“That said, I strongly recommend choosing practices with higher-level providers on-site at all times—such as Nurse Practitioners, Medical Doctors, or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. While IV therapy is generally safe, some of the medications used can cause side effects, particularly during administration. Most of these reactions are well-known, anticipated, and managed efficiently by experienced providers. However, there are times when an unexpected reaction occurs, and having a seasoned professional on hand to assess and respond ensures the highest level of patient safety.”

Josie L. Tenore, MD, is a board-certified family physician who became interested in aesthetics during medical school. As a result, most of her electives focused on dermatology and plastic surgery. She began her practice with family medicine because she enjoyed the challenge of delivering comprehensive health and well-being to people of all ages. This unique combination led her to advocate a program of eating well, exercising and aesthetics for her patients. She is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery and the National Society of Cosmetic Physicians.

Find out more about IV therapy in medical aesthetic practices here.

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