The Dangers of IV Drip Treatments: Experts Warn of Infections and Injuries
IV drip treatments, popularized by celebrities like Chrissy Teigen, Lorde, and Miley Cyrus, have seen a surge in popularity over the past decade. These treatments involve the infusion of vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and antioxidants directly into the veins, providing a quick boost to wellness and allegedly curing hangovers. However, infectious disease experts and ER doctors are now warning about the increase in severe infections and injuries associated with these trendy treatments.
The Rise of IV Drip Treatments
IV bars have sprung up across the country, offering these restorative infusions to meet the growing demand. Some companies even provide house calls or set up shop inside luxury apartment buildings. The cocktails of vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and antioxidants, including selenium, vitamin C, and B-complex, are believed to flush out toxins and deliver medications and antioxidants that alleviate hangover symptoms and reduce damaging free radicals.
The Dark Side of IV Drip Treatments
As accessibility to these treatments has increased, so has the number of patients reporting adverse reactions. Emergency medicine physician Dr. Richina Bicette-McCain has treated numerous patients experiencing bad reactions after receiving IV drip treatments at med spas or hydration clinics. The most common complication is infection at the site of the IV placement.
One such case is that of Bea Amma, a fitness influencer who suffered from an aggressive bacterium infection called Mycobacterium abscessus after receiving IV infusions at a luxury spa in Los Angeles. She experienced painful skin lesions and her entire body started deteriorating. Doctors believe the infection was a result of improper injection techniques.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also issued a warning about unregulated fat-dissolving injections and improper injection techniques, further highlighting the risks associated with these treatments.
Tragic Consequences
Jenifer Cleveland’s story serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers of IV drip treatments. After receiving an IV infusion at a med spa in Texas, she went into cardiac arrest and ultimately passed away. While the autopsy couldn’t determine if the IV therapy caused her death, the spa’s medical director had their license suspended for failing to properly supervise an unlicensed individual performing intravenous treatments.
Cleveland’s family is advocating for increased regulations and oversight for med spas, as there are currently no federal health regulations or national standard procedures in place. Each state sets its own rules, leading to inconsistencies and potential risks for patients.
The Need for Consistency and Safety
Experts in the field, such as Alex Thiersch, the CEO of the American Med Spa Association, emphasize the importance of establishing baseline consistency across all states. Currently, some states lack the resources or time to ensure that every med spa is operating safely. Thiersch acknowledges that while the industry is generally safe, there is an underbelly of providers who should not be performing these treatments.
As the popularity of IV drip treatments continues to rise, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the potential risks and seek treatments from reputable and regulated establishments. Safety should always be the top priority when it comes to wellness and healthcare.
