Natural Med Doc Nutrient IV Therapy

By Dr. Sarah Bennett, NMD / February 16, 2022

Natural Med Doc Nutrient IV Therapy

Nutrient IV therapy, aka nutritional IV therapy or vitamin IV therapy, is the administration of vitamins, amino acids, minerals, electrolytes, etc., directly into the bloodstream. Intravenous administration is a faster, more direct, and more effective way to dose vitamins and nutrients.

Other routes of administration such as taking vitamins orally are limited by many factors including time to absorption, suboptimal absorption rates due to digestive dysfunction, detoxification processed limiting dose available to the rest of the body, and often poor bioavailability of active ingredients found in common supplement brands. Nutrient IV therapy surpasses these limitations delivering the desired micronutrients directly to the bloodstream for optimal results. 

Nutrient IV therapy is often utilized to treat various diseases, conditions, and symptoms. Some of the top benefits of nutrient IV therapy include improving energy, immune function, exercise recovery, and sleep.

When was Nutrient IV Therapy Developed?

The use of modern infusion therapy began in 1902, with the administration of standard saline solutions. Nutrient IV therapy, however, was developed in the 1960s by Dr. John Myers, an internist from John Hopkins hospital in Baltimore.  

Dr. Myers’ created the Myers formula, an infusion formula consisting of a combination of essential micronutrients including magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, and vitamin C. This formulation has been found to benefit acute asthma, fatigue, migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, acute muscle spasm, upper respiratory tract infections, chronic sinusitis, seasonal allergic rhinitis, cardiovascular disease, and more! (1)

Uses and Benefits of Nutrient IV Therapy

Nutrient IV therapy has been shown to provide a wide variety of health benefits, including but not limited to:

  • Athletic Recovery
  • Immune Function
  • Fatigue 
  • Allergies 
  • Hydration 
  • Detoxification
  • Anti-Aging
  • Acute/ Chronic infection 
  • Asthma
  • Nutrient Deficiencies
  • Cardiovascular Disease
  • Muscle spasms 
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Hypertension ( High Blood Pressure)
  • Migraines
  • Post Traumatic Brain Injury
  • Cognitive Decline 

Common types of Nutrient IV therapy

Myers’ Cocktail

Myers’ Cocktail infusion, also known as a multivitamin infusion, commonly contains between 8-16 vitamins depending on the formula, which may vary based on clinic and provider preference. The Myers’ Cocktail formula may include a combination of magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, vitamin C, potassium, zinc, selenium, and taurine.

The direct intravenous administration of these vitamins and minerals allows the body to utilize the dose more quickly and efficiently, skipping absorption barriers and detoxifying organs. 

Due to the high number of vitamins and minerals in Myer’s cocktail infusions, the benefits and indications for therapy are vast. These benefits and indications are listed as seen below:

  • Acute Asthma (1)
  • Fatigue (12)
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (1,2)
  • Fibromyalgia (1,3)
  • Acute Muscle Spasm (1,4)
  • Upper respiratory tract infections (1)
  • Migraines  (1,4)
  • HPA axis dysfunction (5,6)
  • Anxiety (5,7)
  • Allergies (5,8)
  • POTS (9)
  • Acute viral infection (10)
  • Chronic inflammation & inflammatory disorders (11)
  • Autoimmunity (6)
  • Decrease withdrawal symptoms of addiction (6)
  • Cancer-related pain (6)
  • Sleep Dysfunction (12)
  • Hypertension ( High Blood Pressure ) (4)
  • Metabolic Dysfunction (4)
  • Exercise recovery (13)
  • Cardiovascular arrhythmias (4)
  • Brain Fog & Memory impairment (4)
  • Menstrual cramps (4)
  • Eclampsia (4)
  • Seizures in pregnancy (4)
  • Support other vitamin absorption rates ( vitamin D ) (4)

These are the Natural Med Doc version of Myers’ Cocktail below!

Glutathione IV:

Glutathione is the master antioxidant of the body, a tripeptide made up of cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. In addition to providing significant antioxidant effects, glutathione is involved in the phases of detoxification, mitochondrial function and energy production, cell cycle regulation, inflammation reduction, immune modulation, neuroprotection, anti-aging properties, and so much more. (14,15,16)

Studies suggest that glutathione is poorly absorbed via oral dosing, whereas administration via intravenous, inhalation and intranasal routes has improved systemic glutathione levels. (14,17)

Low glutathione levels have been associated with obesity, estrogen dominance, hypercortisolism, vitamin D deficiency, diabetes, hypertension, and certain pharmaceutical use, such as acetaminophen, antidepressants, and opiates. (18)

Glutathione inhalations and infusions have been specifically utilized to address the following symptoms and conditions:

  • Detoxification (including mercury toxicity) (14)
  • Cognitive Decline (19)
  • Traumatic Brain Injury recovery (20)
  • Acute and Chronic Lung infection (21)
  • COPD (22)
  • Skin health (23)
  • Fatty Liver Disease (14)
  • Chronic Inflammation (14)
  • Fatigue (14)

Magnesium IV

Magnesium is an essential mineral found at high levels in the human body. This mineral is utilized in over 300 different biochemical processes and therefore is critical for optimal functioning of the body. 

Although conventional providers rarely test serum magnesium levels, it has been found that 48% of Americans ingest less magnesium from food and beverage than the estimated average daily requirements for healthy individuals in the same stage of life. In addition, studies show that up to 20% of the population of developed countries (such as the United States) have an overt magnesium deficiency. 

Magnesium deficiency may cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including low energy, brain fog, muscle spasms, aches, low appetite, nausea, vomiting, weakness, numbness, tingling, seizures, arrhythmias, personality changes, even low calcium levels. (24)

Magnesium infusions are commonly utilized to address the following symptoms and conditions:

  • Sleep Dysfunction  (12)
  • Anxiety (7)
  • Hypertension ( High Blood Pressure ) (4)
  • Migraines & Headaches (4)
  • Metabolic Dysfunction (4)
  • Fibromyalgia (3)
  • Muscle twitching, aches, spasms (4)
  • Exercise recovery (13)
  • Cardiovascular arrhythmias (4)
  • Low Energy (2)
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (2)
  • Brain Fog & Memory impairment (4)
  • Menstrual cramps (4)
  • Eclampsia (4)
  • Seizures in pregnancy (4)
  • Support other vitamin absorption rates ( vitamin D ) (4)

NAD+ IV

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) infusions have emerged as a new cutting-edge anti-aging therapy.

NAD+ is an essential coenzyme found in all living cells, necessary for proper metabolism, energy (ATP) production, DNA repair, and more. 

Many factors deplete NAD+ levels in the body, including extensive free radical-induced DNA damage, chronic inflammation and immune activation, aging-related increase in consumption, and decrease in synthesis.

NAD+ is often replenished utilizing intravenous administration. 

NAD+ infusions have been shown to provide many health benefits, including decreased age-related degeneration and associated complications. These health benefits are listed below:

  • Increase longevity (25,26)
  • Elevated mitochondrial function and increased energy (25,26)
  • Improve blood pressure & arterial flexibility (25,26)
  • Improve Neurological function (25)
  • Improve Cardiovascular Function (25)
  • Liver and Kidney protective (25)
  • Decrease age related muscle atrophy (25)
  • Decrease insulin resistance (26)

Possible Side Effects of Nutrient IVs 

Nutrient IVs are generally considered to be safe and display and low side effect profile, but as with any therapy, there are possible side effects of adverse reactions. 

  • Vasovagal Reaction

A vasovagal reaction is basically when the body plays possum, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure heart rate, frequently causing a loss of consciousness. This reaction is most often caused by visualizing blood or using needles.

  • Infiltration 

Infiltration occurs when the needle punctures through both sides of the vein, allowing the IV solution to begin and accumulate in the tissue outside the vein. This can cause a burning sensation that can be uncomfortable or painful. Infiltration is caused during placement of the IV if the needle punctures both sides of the IV, after an IV recipient moves, causing the needle to puncture through the other side of the vein, or if the vein collapses during the administration process. This is often a mild concern causing discomfort. The infusion needs to be placed in a different location. Placing a heating pad over the infiltrated site can alleviate discomfort and tenderness. 

  • Infection at the site of administration 

Puncturing the skin in any way (infusion, injection, injury) increases infection risk. Due to this increased risk, the mixing of IVs is regulated. Clinics are required to mix nutrient IVs in a hood or small cleanroom to ensure sterility of the product administered. Be sure to ask your provider about their infusion sterility and safety procedures prior to receiving an infusion. 

  • Adverse reactions to the nutrients in the infusion may include: Rash, itching, skin readiness, flushing, dizziness, agitation, allergic reactions ( Hives, eye swelling)

Allergic reactions are a common possibility seen in response to many different treatments, Nutrient IVs included. Most allergic reactions are mild, needing only to remove the infusion. However, a more moderate reaction may require diphenhydramine to eliminate symptoms. 

  • Anaphylactic reaction

An Anaphylactic reaction is a life-threatening allergic reaction. Although this type of reaction is uncommon, it is a possibility. This type of reaction is treated with the administration of Epinephrine. All clinics administering Nutrient infusions should hold Epinephrine on hand at all times. Be sure to ask your provider if they carry Epinephrine prior to receiving your infusion.

Conclusion

Nutrient IV therapy has become an increasingly popular natural treatment option for a vast array of symptoms and disorders, ranging in use from immune support to the “hangover cure.” 

Nutrient infusions allow fast direct dosing of micronutrients into the bloodstream allowing for higher bioavailability and treatment efficacy. In addition, these infusions are considered safe, holding a low side effect profile.

Most Nutrient IVs can be administered in 30 min to 90 minutes depending on size and drip rate, making the procedure fast and easy.

If you struggle with any of the symptoms or conditions listed above, be sure to ask your naturopathic physician about nutrient IV therapy. 

References

  1. Gaby AR. Intravenous nutrient therapy: the “Myers’ cocktail”. Altern Med Rev. 2002;7(5):389-403.
  2. Takahashi H, Imai K, Katanuma A, et al. Arerugi. 1992;41(11):1605-1610.
  3. Boulis M, Boulis M, Clauw D. Magnesium and Fibromyalgia: A Literature Review. J Prim Care Community Health. 2021;12:21501327211038433. doi:10.1177/21501327211038433
  4. Gröber U, Schmidt J, Kisters K. Magnesium in Prevention and Therapy. Nutrients. 2015;7(9):8199-8226. Published 2015 Sep 23. doi:10.3390/nu7095388
  5. IV Therapy and Specialty Lab Services. National Integrated Health Associates. https://www.nihadc.com/therapies/iv-therapy.html. Accessed February 14, 2022.
  6. Kodama M, Kodama T, Murakami M, Kodama M. Autoimmune disease and allergy are controlled by vitamin C treatment. In Vivo. 1994;8(2):251-257.
  7. Boyle NB, Lawton C, Dye L. The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress-A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2017;9(5):429. Published 2017 Apr 26. doi:10.3390/nu9050429
  8. Vollbracht C, Raithel M, Krick B, Kraft K, Hagel AF. Intravenous vitamin C in the treatment of allergies: an interim subgroup analysis of a long-term observational study. J Int Med Res. 2018;46(9):3640-3655. doi:10.1177/0300060518777044
  9. Ruzieh M, Baugh A, Dasa O, et al. Effects of intermittent intravenous saline infusions in patients with medication-refractory postural tachycardia syndrome. J Interv Card Electrophysiol. 2017;48(3):255-260. doi:10.1007/s10840-017-0225-y
  10. Boretti A, Banik BK. Intravenous vitamin C for reduction of cytokines storm in acute respiratory distress syndrome. PharmaNutrition. 2020;12:100190. doi:10.1016/j.phanu.2020.100190
  11. Ellulu MS, Rahmat A, Patimah I, Khaza’ai H, Abed Y. Effect of vitamin C on inflammation and metabolic markers in hypertensive and/or diabetic obese adults: a randomized controlled trial. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2015;9:3405-3412. Published 2015 Jul 1. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S83144
  12. Djokic G, Vojvodić P, Korcok D, et al. The Effects of Magnesium – Melatonin – Vit B Complex Supplementation in Treatment of Insomnia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2019;7(18):3101-3105. Published 2019 Aug 30. doi:10.3889/oamjms.2019.771
  13. Zhang Y, Xun P, Wang R, Mao L, He K. Can Magnesium Enhance Exercise Performance?. Nutrients. 2017;9(9):946. Published 2017 Aug 28. doi:10.3390/nu9090946
  14. Pizzorno J. Glutathione!. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2014;13(1):8-12.
  15. Wu G, Fang Y-Z, Yang S, Lupton JR, Turner ND. Glutathione metabolism and its implications for health. The Journal of Nutrition. 2004;134(3):489-492. doi:10.1093/jn/134.3.489
  16. Townsend DM, Tew KD, Tapiero H. The importance of glutathione in human disease. Biomed Pharmacother. 2003;57(3-4):145-155. doi:10.1016/s0753-3322(03)00043-x
  17. Schmitt B, Vicenzi M, Garrel C, Denis FM. Effects of N-acetylcysteine, oral glutathione (GSH) and a novel sublingual form of GSH on oxidative stress markers: A comparative crossover study. Redox Biol. 2015;6:198-205. doi:10.1016/j.redox.2015.07.012
  18. Silvagno F, Vernone A, Pescarmona GP. The Role of Glutathione in Protecting against the Severe Inflammatory Response Triggered by COVID-19. Antioxidants (Basel). 2020;9(7):624. Published 2020 Jul 16. doi:10.3390/antiox9070624
  19. Pocernich CB, Butterfield DA. Elevation of glutathione as a therapeutic strategy in Alzheimer disease. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2012;1822(5):625-630. doi:10.1016/j.bbadis.2011.10.003
  20. Koza L, Linseman DA. Glutathione precursors shield the brain from trauma. Neural Regen Res. 2019;14(10):1701-1702. doi:10.4103/1673-5374.257520
  21. Horowitz RI, Freeman PR, Bruzzese J. Efficacy of glutathione therapy in relieving dyspnea associated with COVID-19 pneumonia: A report of 2 cases. Respir Med Case Rep. 2020;30:101063. Published 2020 Apr 21. doi:10.1016/j.rmcr.2020.101063
  22. Prousky J. The treatment of pulmonary diseases and respiratory-related conditions with inhaled (nebulized or aerosolized) glutathione. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2008;5(1):27-35. doi:10.1093/ecam/nem040
  23. Prussick R, Prussick L, Gutman J. Psoriasis Improvement in Patients Using Glutathione-enhancing, Nondenatured Whey Protein Isolate: A Pilot Study. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2013;6(10):23-26.
  24. Office of dietary supplements – magnesium. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-healthProfessional/. Accessed February 14, 2022.
  25. Rajman L, Chwalek K, Sinclair DA. Therapeutic Potential of NAD-Boosting Molecules: The In Vivo Evidence. Cell Metab. 2018;27(3):529-547. doi:10.1016/j.cmet.2018.02.011
  26. McReynolds MR, Chellappa K, Baur JA. Age-related NAD+ decline [published online ahead of print, 2020 Feb 22]. Exp Gerontol. 2020;134:110888. doi:10.1016/j.exger.2020.110888

Other references for further reading:

  • Carr AC, McCall C. The role of vitamin C in the treatment of pain: new insights. J Transl Med. 2017;15(1):77. Published 2017 Apr 14. doi:10.1186/s12967-017-1179-7
  • DiNicolantonio JJ, O’Keefe JH, Wilson W. Subclinical magnesium deficiency: a principal driver of cardiovascular disease and a public health crisis [published correction appears in Open Heart. 2018 Apr 5;5(1):e000668corr1]. Open Heart. 2018;5(1):e000668. Published 2018 Jan 13. doi:10.1136/openhrt-2017-000668

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