What is Intravenous Infusion (IV) Therapy?
In simple terms, intravenous (IV) therapy is a method of delivering any type of medicine, nutrient or other fluid directly into the bloodstream so that it can be immediately absorbed and used in the body. The intravenous route is much faster than the oral route because the digestive system is bypassed and products are taken directly to the organs via the circulatory system. The absorption rate for IV therapies is 90 – 100% compared with possibly less than 50% for oral therapies.
Intravenous infusions are not the same as intravenous injections. Direct injections deliver therapy quickly, which can be necessary for certain medicines and in specific situations. IV infusions are administered over a longer period of time, using a larger volume of fluid.
Is IV therapy new?
Modern intravenous therapy has been around for less than a hundred years, although the concept of delivering medicines directly into the veins is centuries old. Early attempts were hampered by primitive equipment, poor understanding of the body and lack of effective sterilisation techniques. However, tremendous advances have been made in the last 25 years, and IV therapy is one of the most common procedures in modern medicine.
Uses of IV therapy
Until relatively recently, IV therapy has been used mainly in hospital settings, commonly to deliver rehydration and other medicines to patients. It is also the obvious route to use when patients are unable to take oral medication. However, IV therapy is now an increasingly popular choice in cancer care and other clinical settings, with advanced delivery techniques and equipment that ensure a comfortable and convenient experience. IV infusion can deliver a wide range of therapies, from immune system support and recovery to ongoing complementary care alongside conventional cancer treatment.
Who can benefit from IV therapy?
There is growing evidence that IV therapies can benefit a wide range of people, particularly those experiencing challenges to their immune system. At Wellbeing Medical Group, we specialise in IV therapies for cancer patients — supporting people through chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy and surgery. Our therapies include high-dose vitamin C IV therapy, mistletoe IV infusion therapy, curcumin IV therapy, helleborus IV therapy and wormwood IV therapy. We also offer ozone therapy at our London clinic. Each therapy is tailored to your diagnosis and designed to work alongside your hospital treatment.
Wellbeing Medical Group
Wellbeing Medical Group is a CQC-regulated integrative cancer clinic based near Tower Bridge in London. We offer a range of intravenous infusion therapies designed specifically for cancer patients, working alongside your NHS or private oncology treatment. Every protocol is personally designed by Dr Saskia Kloppenburg Vieth based on your diagnosis, treatment plan and medical history. If you are experiencing cancer treatment side effects such as fatigue, nausea or immune suppression, our IV therapies may help support your wellbeing during treatment. We also provide broader supportive cancer care guidance covering nutrition, supplement safety and emotional wellbeing. Contact us to arrange a free consultation.