Intravenous Therapy

Intravenous therapy (IV) is a treatment in which vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants are administered directly into the bloodstream.

The purpose of IV therapy is to deliver these nutrients in high concentrations directly to the body’s tissues and cells, bypassing the digestive system. When nutrients are taken orally, they are absorbed into the bloodstream through the small intestine and transported to the liver via the hepatic circulation. In the liver, they undergo a process where liver enzymes may render them less effective or even ineffective. This screening process is known as the “first-pass effect”.

Intravenous therapy avoids the “first-pass effect,” allowing nutrients to be immediately absorbed and utilized by the body. This method also helps to hydrate the body and increase electrolyte levels.

IV therapy is used for patients who cannot take vitamins orally, who have absorption issues due to gastrointestinal problems, or when higher blood concentrations of nutrients are needed, which cannot be achieved through oral intake.

Infusions are particularly effective for recovery after illness, immune system decline, or viral infections. The effects of IV therapy are noticeable quickly, improving overall health by providing full utilization of vitamins.

Preparation

A prerequisite for receiving IV therapy is a consultation, lasting 30 minutes.

During the consultation, you need to bring:

• Complete blood count
• Biochemical report (sodium, potassium, calcium, urea, creatinine)

After the consultation, an appointment for intravenous nutritional therapy will be scheduled.

For the treatment, you should bring:

• A completed and signed intravenous therapy form
• A list of all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking
• A copy of the most recent blood test

It is also necessary to be well-hydrated before the procedure; it is recommended to drink 500 ml to 1000 ml of water. Dehydration can complicate IV placement. Additionally, eating something before the visit is advised, preferably a protein-rich snack like nuts, seeds, protein bars, cheese, yogurt, or eggs.

Who are the candidates for intravenous therapy?

Candidates for intravenous therapy include everyone except pregnant women, patients with kidney or heart diseases, and children under 14 years old.

Procedure overview

The duration of the therapy is between 45 minutes to one hour. At Poliklinika Sinteza, the following intravenous combinations are available:

• • Vitamin booster
  • Vitamin booster plus

Vitamin booster exceptionally enhances the overall condition and health of the body. The B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12) play a crucial role in cellular metabolism, the health of the central and peripheral nervous systems, and the maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and red blood cells. Each of these vitamins has a specific role in these processes, such as vitamin B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cyanocobalamin), which are involved in neurotransmitter production, repair of damaged nerve cells, and can improve mood and cognitive abilities. Vitamins B5 (pantothenic acid) and B6 (pyridoxine) help the body better cope with stress, while vitamin B7 (biotin) and vitamin B3 (niacin) have well-known roles in promoting skin, hair, and nail health.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a well-known antioxidant that strengthens the immune system by protecting against free radicals and stimulating the growth of white blood cells. It also plays a role in collagen production, which can improve the appearance of the skin, accelerate wound healing, and contribute to the health of blood vessels.

Vitamin D promotes bone health by aiding calcium absorption and also plays a significant role in strengthening immunity and stabilizing mood.

Vitamin Booster Plus contains all of the above vitamins, along with the addition of essential minerals, zinc and magnesium, which are involved in nearly all processes in the body, from energy production and muscle health to immune response.

Zinc is a key element of the immune system. It helps activate white blood cells, produce antibodies, and zinc deficiency is associated with frequent viral infections and slow recovery from them. As an antioxidant, it protects cells from oxidative stress and participates in DNA synthesis, cell proliferation, and collagen synthesis, making it essential for wound healing. It also plays a role in hormone production and regulation, including insulin, thyroid hormones, and testosterone.

Magnesium is critical in the production of cellular energy, participating in the function of over 300 enzymes. It regulates muscle contraction, preventing cramps and muscle “tremors.” It has a calming effect on the central nervous system, aiding relaxation and sleep quality. Additionally, its relaxing effect on blood vessel walls helps regulate blood pressure.

Vitamin infusions have a positive impact on the body after intense physical exertion, chronic fatigue, intense sports activity, and other similar physical efforts.

They are also useful as a preventive measure (when higher exertion and stress are expected for the body, or for example, during the “flu season”), helping the body stay healthy and functional even during times of increased challenges.

If you experience a drop in energy, vitamin, and mineral deficiencies, or simply wish to reset your health, IV therapy is an excellent way to achieve this.

Recovery

After intravenous therapy, patients can resume their usual daily activities. Depending on the chosen IV combination, they will likely notice increased energy levels, better mental clarity, and other benefits associated with intravenous therapy.

Precautions

It is important to arrive hydrated for the IV therapy session. Dehydration can complicate IV placement. Additionally, eating something before the visit is advised, preferably a protein-rich snack like nuts, seeds, protein bars, cheese, yogurt, or eggs. Low blood sugar can make you feel weak and dizzy.

Cost of IV therapy

You can check the price of the IV therapy at Poliklinika Sinteza in the current price list. For more information, contact us at +385 1 5005 970 or via email at info@sinteza.hr. Schedule a consultation to learn more about this modern method of enhancing your health!

Service location

Documents for patients

• Upute za pacijente – intravenozna terapija