Risks of Elective IV Infusions

An elective IV drip is optional by definition. That makes it worth asking what you risk before you lie down for one.

Is a drip menu urgent?

You chose to consider it, so you can also choose to wait until you have asked questions.

Who the cautions are aimed at

The site www.aarp.org reports that experts caution that medically unnecessary IV drips could be risky for some people, particularly those who have heart disease or kidney problems. If that sounds like you, the first call is to your own clinician, not to a drip bar.

The needle itself carries risk

The same site, www.aarp.org, notes that because you are getting a needle placed in your arm, there is a chance of pain or bruising or, in rare cases, infection or inflammation of the vein. Weigh them against what the infusion can really do.

Weighing benefit against cost

AARP asks Does IV Vitamin Therapy Actually Work? and Harvard Health calls the practice a health boost or expensive placebo. For the longevity pitch specifically, KUNC asked, Marketers say NAD+ pills and infusions can boost longevity. What's the evidence?.

Where DIY ends

Reading is yours to do. Whether a drip is safe for you is a clinician's call, particularly with a heart or kidney history. If something feels wrong after a drip, call the clinic or your own clinician rather than waiting it out.