Introduction to IV Therapy

Medical Wellness

If you have your finger on the pulse of current health and wellness approaches, like we do at Evoke 5 Medical Center, chances are you’ve heard about IV therapy. This type of therapy delivers fluids, medications and nutrients directly into the bloodstream to support the body’s function and promote healing.

IV therapy is commonly used to:

  • Restore hydration levels in individuals who are dehydrated due to illness, exercise or other causes.
  • Deliver medications that cannot be given orally or would be less effective if taken orally.
  • Provide essential nutrients to individuals who are unable to consume food or absorb nutrients through their gastrointestinal tract.
  • Transfuse blood and blood products directly into the bloodstream.

The history of IV therapy

Modern IV therapy is less than a century old. While it was known that medications could be injected into a vein as early as the 1600s, due to a lack of scientific methods, original attempts to deliver IV fluids and drugs met with little success.

Two World Wars ushered in the era of modern IV therapy, with the greatest advancements in drugs, equipment and procedures occurring in the past 25 years. Today, it is possible to infuse most needed vitamins (and even stem cells!) intravenously to treat various ailments and support overall health and wellness.

IV therapy at Evoke 5

At Evoke 5, Dr. Cas’ Oklahoma City-based functional family medicine clinic, IV therapies are administered specifically to aid in the regeneration of cells in the brain, skin, muscles and most other areas of the body. Our IV therapies can help restore and strengthen your immune system, hydrate your body, and replenish essential vitamins and nutrients to help you feel your very best.

Our doctors and medical staff work together to create a relaxing environment and provide top-quality care to each and every client. Dedication, cutting-edge treatments, personal care, and purity are just some of the goals that we strive to meet every day.

Types of IV therapies

At Evoke 5, we offer state-of-the-art IV therapy for a variety of medical/physical conditions. Some of our most popular therapies are:

  • Anti-aging/Recovery
  • Fat Buster/Weight Management
  • Immune Boost
  • Fatigue Boost
  • Pain/Fibromyalgia
  • Exercise Recovery
  • Migraine
  • Hangover
  • Evoke 5 Cocktail

Our exclusive Evoke 5 Cocktail includes a combination of IV fluids, vitamins, electrolytes and antioxidants that help give you clarity throughout the day, with effects lasting up to a couple of weeks. This IV therapy aids in detoxifying your body while boosting your immune system, and is optimal for overall health and cellular functioning.

IV therapy – what to expect

At our clinic, we offer IV therapy in a calm, relaxing environment. You can also inquire about our concierge IV treatments in the comfort and privacy of your own home or office.

  • Step 1: Contact us to book an appointment. When you call, let us know which IV therapy you are interested in receiving.
  • Step 2: For in-office visits, arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
  • Step 3: Relax with your IV therapy of choice in the comfort and privacy of our clinic.

IV Therapy FAQs

If you’ve never had IV therapy, you may have some questions. We’re pleased to answer some of the most frequently asked questions here. If you’d like additional information, please contact us.

What are IV drips?

IV drips are the administration of intravenous fluids, and can include a mixture of vitamins, minerals, supplements like antioxidants or amino acids, and medications. The specific blend – or “IV drip” – you receive is tailored to your specific symptoms, and your health and wellness goals. At Evoke 5, we currently offer 10 unique IV blends.

How long do IV treatments take?

IV treatments take 40-60 minutes on average.

Can I customize my IV treatment?

Absolutely! We are happy to customize your treatment to fit your exact needs.

Where can I book my appointment?

Please contact our office to book your IV therapy.

Can anyone receive IV therapy?

Most people can handle extra fluid into their veins; exceptions are people with heart failure and/or kidney failure.

Are there any side effects?

If feeling GOOD is a side effect, then you got it. There is a very low chance of any negative reactions. Some people may have some redness around the infusion site, but shouldn’t feel any discomfort.

How many treatments do I need?

Most people benefit from IV therapy once a month. For more chronic conditions, your doctor may recommend follow-up treatments on a more regular basis.

Who will administer my IV therapy? What sort of special training do they have?

A doctor or nurse from our clinic will place the IV. Our health care providers have years of training in hospital and clinic settings, and have placed thousands of IVs.

Where do the IV fluids come from? How do I know they are safe?

All of our IV fluids are made in the office, using sterile techniques and preservative-free vitamins.

How much does IV therapy cost?

In-office IV therapy typically ranges from $150 to $225 per treatment. There is an additional charge for concierge IV treatments at your home or office.

Does insurance cover IV therapy?

Insurance doesn’t cover these types of IV therapy.

IV therapy information and ingredients

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD)

NAD is found in all cells and is essential to living. Essentially, NAD can help reverse signs of aging, delay or prevent the onset of certain diseases, reduce pain, and improve cognitive function. This molecule is key to how your mitochondria function properly and helps decrease cellular damage.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA, thioctic acid) is an endogenous, potent antioxidant that is purported to be useful in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, diabetic neuropathy, dementia secondary to Alzheimer’s disease or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, glaucoma, amanita mushroom poisoning, and alcoholic liver disease. Studies supporting the use of ALA in the treatment of diabetes and diabetic neuropathy are available. The majority of studies are short in duration (e.g., 3-5 weeks) and were completed with a small number of study participants; however, small studies of both 6 months and 24 months duration have been completed in patients with diabetic neuropathy. ALA has been used extensively in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy in Germany since 1959. Studies supporting the effectiveness of ALA in other purported indications in humans are lacking or inconclusive. Further investigations of ALA in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, HIV-related dementia or liver diseases are needed before it can be recommended for use for those conditions.

Ascorbic Acid

Vitamin C has been shown to heal wounds and form scar tissue, and assist in the growth of healthy skin, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. It can also repair and maintain cartilage, bones and teeth. It is also one of the best antioxidants, which means it can help block the damaging effects of free radicals.

B-complex

Vitamin B complex is essential for a wide variety of functions in the human body. Its deficiency can also lead to several disorders including chronic neurological ones. Biochemically, different structures are grouped together under B-complex on the basis of their natural occurrence in same type of food and solubility in water. Since humans are not able to synthesize vitamin B complex on their own, and these vitamins are easily excreted from the body through urine, their regular intake is essential to maintain energy production, DNA/RNA synthesis/repair, genomic and non-genomic methylation, as well as synthesis of numerous neurochemicals and signaling molecules.

B complex deficiency is normally caused due to four possible reasons: high consumption of processed and refined food, with lack of dairy and meat-based food in diet, excessive consumption of alcohol, impaired absorption from the gastrointestinal tract or impaired storage and use by liver.

According to clinical research, parenteral administration (intramuscular or intravenous) is preferred over other drug administration routes in case of emergency situations as it provides first-pass metabolism avoidance, reliable therapeutic concentrations and better bioavailability of dosage. It can also be used in situations when oral route is not feasible.

Each 30 mL vial contains: 100 mg of vitamin B1 in form of thiamine hydrochloride, 2 mg of vitamin B2 in form riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium, 100 mg of B3 in form niacinamide, 2 mg of vitamin B5 in form of dexpanthenol and 2 mg of vitamin B6 in form of pyridoxine hydrochloride.

B vitamins are necessary for the proper functioning of the methylation cycle, DNA synthesis, repair and maintenance of phospholipids and generally essential for healthy skin, muscles, brain, and nerve functionality. The individual functions are described below but more often than not they work together to achieve the required effect:

  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): It plays an important role in energy metabolism, immunity boosting and functioning of nervous system. It can help avoid type 2 diabetes, several cardiovascular diseases, some vision and kidney disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): It is a powerful antioxidant and plays a vital role in maintaining healthy blood cells and boosts metabolism.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Niacin plays a critical role in proper functioning of the nervous and digestive systems. Like other vitamins from the family, it is necessary for energy production and metabolism of fatty acids. It also provides healthy skin, nails and hair.
  • Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Pantothenic acid is essential for healthy development of the central nervous system. It is involved in energy production and through different metabolic and anabolic cycles in development of amino acids, blood cells, vitamin D3 and other fatty acids.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Vitamin B6 has a very influential role in synthesis of neurotransmitters and is essential for good mental health. It also has a direct effect on immune function. It plays a role in metabolism of amino acids and is a necessary co-factor in the folate cycle, lack of which can lead to anemia.

Epidemiological evidence in some cases hints that the accepted dosages of vitamin B helps only to avoid their marginal deficiency and further benefits could accrue from higher dosages than those provided by RDA.

Calcium Gluconate

This mineral can aid in the function of building strong bones and teeth. It also helps with the heart and muscles to function properly.

Chromium

Chromium, in its trivalent state (i.e., Cr3+), is an essential trace element that is required for proper carbohydrate, lipid and nucleic acid metabolism in the human body. Dietary sources of chromium (Cr3+) include whole grains, egg yolks, brewer’s yeast, liver, meats, nuts, potatoes with skin, and beer. Overt signs and symptoms of chromium deficiency are usually only observed in adult patients eating diets high in refined foods or who are receiving long-term total parenteral nutrition without chromium supplementation. Clinically, overt deficiencies may be detected as the development of impaired glucose tolerance, glycosuria, and insulin resistance. Impaired protein and lipid metabolism, peripheral neuropathy, and encephalopathy secondary to chromium deficiency have also been reported. Chromium supplementation should only be expected to improve disorders that are due to chromium deficiency.

CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is found in all cells across all domains of life. It is a redox-active lipid biosynthesized in the mitochondria by the conjugation of a benzoquinone ring with a 10-unit isoprenoid chain. It is essential in the production of cellular energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). It is a significant antioxidant and therefore prevents free radical generation and modifications of DNA, proteins and lipids. It can also help in the regeneration of other antioxidants, such as vitamin E. CoQ10 is also naturally found in some foods, such as meat, nuts, fruits and vegetables.

Dexpanthenol

This pre-cursor to Coenzyme A has many functions, including assisting in GI motility dysfunction (constipation) and skin repair. It has been used in many beauty products for its anti-aging properties.

L-Arginine

This is an amino acid found in red meat, poultry, fish and dairy products. It is converted in the body into a chemical called Nitric Oxide. Nitric Oxide causes blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. L-arginine also stimulates the release of growth hormone, insulin and other substances in the body.

L-Carnitine

This is an amino acid naturally produced in the body. It can be depleted in the body by medication such as Valproic acid for seizures. We also find low levels in strict vegetarians and dieters. It helps the body produce energy. It is important for heart and brain function, muscle movement and many other body processes.

L-Glutathione

This is a natural anti-oxidant produced by the liver. It reduces oxidative stress (keeps you younger), helps improve psoriasis, improves insulin resistance in older individuals, increases mobility for people with peripheral artery disease, reduces symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, and may reduce respiratory disease symptoms.

L-Glycine

This is an essential amino acid found in protein-rich foods, including meat, fish, dairy and legumes. It helps to create antioxidants in your body to help fight cellular damage and creatinine for muscle energy. It also improves brain function and can reduce Alzheimer’s.

L-Lysine

This is an amino acid that can help fight viruses and boost the immune system. It may help to lower cortisol levels in your body when stressed. It protects your bones with increased calcium absorption, and can improve healing and recovery by creating collagen.

Lipo-B (MIC/Cyanocobalamin)

B vitamins are water soluble, which means that your body doesn’t store them. For this reason, your diet must supply them each day. Many of the B vitamins are used in your body for converting energy, antioxidants, hormone and cholesterol production, fat metabolism and cellular growth.

Magnesium Sulfate

Many people are deficient because of certain medication use, such as “water pills.” Poor diet and intestinal problems may also leave you deficient. It is very important for the function of cells, nerves, muscles, bones and heart. It can lower blood pressure and help with constipation.

Sodium Bicarbonate

This can help with lowering acid in the stomach. It has also been used to help with metabolic acidosis and, in lower levels, sports recovery due to built-up lactic acid.

Tralement (Zinc, Copper, Manganese, Selenium)
  • Zinc has been identified as a cofactor for over 70 different enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase, lactic dehydrogenase and both RNA and DNA polymerase. Zinc facilitates wound healing, helps maintain normal growth rates, normal skin hydration and senses of taste and smell. Providing zinc during TPN prevents development of the following deficiency symptoms: Parakeratosis, hypogeusia, anorexia, dysosmia, geophagia, hypogonadism, growth retardation and hepatosplenomegaly. At plasma levels below 20mcg zinc/100mL, dermatitis followed by alopecia has been reported for TPN patients.
  • Copper is essential as a cofactor for serum ceruloplasmin, an oxidase necessary for proper formation of the iron carrier protein, transferrin. Copper also helps maintain normal rates of red and white blood cell formation. Scorbutic type bone changes seen in infants fed exclusively with copper-poor cow’s milk are believed due to decreased activity of ascorbate oxidase, a cuproenzyme. Providing copper during TPN prevents development of the following deficiency symptoms: leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, depressed ceruloplasmin levels, impaired transferrin formation and secondary iron deficiency.
  • Manganese is an activator for enzymes such as polysaccharide polymerase, liver arginase, cholinesterase and pyruvate carboxylase. Providing manganese during TPN prevents development of the following deficiency symptoms: nausea and vomiting, weight loss, dermatitis, and changes in growth and color of hair.
  • Selenium is part of glutathione peroxidase, which protects cell components from oxidative damage due to peroxides produced in cellular metabolism. Prolonged TPN support in humans has resulted in selenium deficiency symptoms which include muscle pain and tenderness. The symptoms have been reported to respond to supplementation of TPN solutions with selenium.
Zinc

Your body doesn’t naturally produce zinc; it must be taken in through food or supplements. Zinc is needed for gene expression, enzymatic reactions, immune function, protein synthesis, DNA synthesis, wound healing, and growth and development. It decreases inflammation, improves wound healing, helps with acne, and speeds healing.