Q&A: Common Infusion Therapy Questions

Over 27% of patients in the United States reported that they had visited an urgent care center within the past two years in 2016. A medical intervention like this is common for millions of Americans and while seeking treatment, chances are you’ve received some form of infusion therapy. But what exactly is infusion therapy and how does it help patients?

Here are a few things you should know about this treatment option.

What Is Infusion Therapy?

Infusion therapy involves the administration of medication via a needle or catheter, usually intravenously. This is done because some medications lose their effectiveness when taken orally or they are not compatible with oral administration. IVs can also be used if a patient is dehydrated and they can make sure that patients stay hydrated during their stay.

Another benefit of infusion therapy is the ability to precisely control dosing. Some medications need to be administered slowly into the bloodstream and IVs allow for that.

Medications are not the only reason to use infusion therapy, however. Some infusion therapies can help slow cognitive decline, boost metabolism, and help increase energy.

What Conditions Is Infusion Therapy Used For?

Infusion therapy isn’t just for treating cancer or keeping patients hydrated. It has also shown to be valuable in supporting the body in fighting illnesses, and maintaining overall health. It can also be used for treating:

• Cognitive Decline
• Chronic Fatigue
• Immune deficiencies
• Infection
• Internal Inflammation

Other conditions that it’s used to treat also include:

• Anti-Aging
• PMS Relief
• Lack of Energy
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Migraines

These are just a few of the many conditions that can be helped by infusion therapy and the delivery of intravenous medications.

What Can You Expect When Receiving Infusion Therapy?

If you need an IV, the process is usually conducted in an urgent care center, a hospital, or your doctor’s office. Although some homecare providers may use this therapy in patients who cannot get to a hospital or doctor.

Each new IV will require another needle, and if you need multiple therapy sessions, a healthcare provider may recommend using a port or central line that can remain for longer.

A port is a surgical implant under the skin that allows easy access to a vein without the need to stick you over and over again. Similarly, a central line is inserted into the chest, neck, arm, or groin and can remain for an extended time as well.

Overall, the process is relatively painless, and there aren’t a lot of risks so long as a trained medical professional is administering it.

This type of therapy is necessary in many cases and it can be the difference between life and death in some. If you need infusion therapy, talk to your healthcare provider about your options and learn more about how you can best prepare.