What Does IV Hydration Therapy Do?

While we all know drinking water is important, sometimes your body needs a more immediate and effective solution to restore its fluid balance to avoid dehydration. The solution for some people might be IV hydration therapy. 

What is IV hydration therapy?

IV hydration therapy is a treatment that delivers fluids, electrolytes and vitamins directly into your bloodstream for rapid absorption and relief through a small intravenous line. This method bypasses the digestive system, which allows for 100% absorption of fluids and nutrients.

The intravenous (IV) drip is typically a saline solution mixed with essential electrolytes like potassium, magnesium and calcium, sometimes along with vitamins, which are tailored to your specific needs. This is the core advantage of IV hydration in a monitored setting.

Unlike drinking water, which can take hours to be absorbed and may not fully replenish lost electrolytes, an IV drip provides instant rehydration. This efficiency makes it a good option for people experiencing moderate to severe dehydration. The IV drip should be administered in a safe, controlled environment by a clinical team member who can make sure you receive the precise balance of fluids your body requires.

How does IV therapy work?

A clinician places a small catheter into a vein, usually in the arm, and connects it to an IV bag. Fluids flow by gravity or via a pump, circulating rapidly throughout the body.

What is the difference between IV and oral hydration?

Oral hydration relies on the stomach and intestines to absorb fluids, which can be slower and limited by nausea or gastrointestinal upset. IV hydration provides immediate availability of fluids and electrolytes in the bloodstream, offering faster rehydration and more predictable results. Oral hydration remains appropriate for everyday needs, while IV hydration therapy is typically reserved for specific clinical or wellness situations.

What are the benefits of IV hydration?

The main advantage of IV hydration therapy is its speed and effectiveness. By delivering fluids directly into your bloodstream, it provides immediate benefits that can help you recover quickly and feel revitalized. 

• Rapid hydration and electrolyte replenishment: IV infusions quickly address fluid deficits and can include electrolytes like sodium, potassium and magnesium to help restore balance after vigorous exercise, travel or dehydration. IV hydration therapy offers predictable delivery and can support recovery when oral intake is limited.
• Enhanced nutrient delivery: Select IV formulations may include vitamins such as B-complex or vitamin C, which enter circulation immediately. This direct delivery can support energy, immune function and overall wellness goals when clinically appropriate. Hydration therapy may be part of a broader plan that includes rest, nutrition and follow-up care.
• Support during recovery: When nausea, fatigue or headaches make drinking fluids difficult, IV hydration can ease symptoms by replenishing fluids and electrolytes. Some patients find relief from temporary dehydration associated with viral illnesses or after celebrations, while clinicians assess whether IV hydration therapy suits your situation.

How can IV therapy help with recovery?

When you are dehydrated, your body's organs and systems cannot function properly. IV therapy quickly restores optimal fluid levels, which improves symptoms like fatigue, dizziness and headaches in a short amount of time. This is particularly beneficial for recovering from illnesses like the flu or food poisoning, where vomiting and diarrhea can cause significant fluid loss.

Why is IV therapy the best way to absorb nutrients?

The body can only absorb a certain percentage of vitamins and minerals through digestion. With IV therapy, we can ensure complete absorption, making it a highly effective way to replace vital nutrients. This can lead to increased energy levels, improved mental clarity and a stronger immune response.

How does IV therapy quickly relieve dehydration symptoms?

Dehydration can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, from dry mouth and muscle cramps to low blood pressure and rapid heart rate. A targeted hydration treatment can quickly reverse these effects. By restoring balance to your body’s systems, IV hydration helps you feel better faster.

Who can benefit from a hydration treatment?

IV hydration therapy is a versatile treatment suitable for a wide variety of people. Our clinician on site will review your past medical history along with any current symptoms to determine if this is the right treatment for you. Its ability to provide rapid relief makes it an excellent choice for many common situations, such as:

• People recovering from illness: Sickness, especially when accompanied by fever, vomiting or diarrhea, can quickly lead to dehydration. IV therapy helps replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, supporting your body’s natural recovery process and helping you regain strength.
• Athletes and other active people: Intense workouts lead to significant fluid loss through sweat. Athletes often turn to IV hydration for post-workout recovery to rehydrate, reduce muscle soreness and restore energy levels. This helps them maintain peak performance.
• Those experiencing fatigue or jet lag: Travel and busy schedules can take a toll on your body, often leading to fatigue and dehydration. An IV hydration treatment can provide a much-needed boost, helping you overcome jet lag and feel refreshed and focused.
• People seeking a wellness boost: Even if you are not ill or an athlete, you can benefit from IV hydration. The treatment can boost your immune system, improve skin health and increase your overall energy levels, making it a proactive step toward maintaining your health.

Your healthcare provider will select the right option based on your specific condition. Rest assured, these fluids are safe, effective and administered under careful supervision to support your health journey.

What to expect during your IV hydration session

• Preparation: You’ll complete a brief health screening and discuss goals with an Ochsner clinician. Share medications, allergies and relevant medical history. Wearing loose clothing and drinking a small amount of water beforehand may make vein access easier unless instructed otherwise.
• Procedure and duration: After cleaning the skin, a small IV catheter is placed in a vein. The infusion typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the solution and your needs. You can relax, read or use your phone while the fluids infuse. Clinicians monitor comfort and adjust the flow as needed to ensure your IV hydration therapy is safe and effective.
• Post-treatment care: Many people feel refreshed shortly after the session. You can resume normal activities unless advised otherwise. Continue drinking water to maintain hydration, and follow any guidance regarding exercise, alcohol or medications. Contact your care team if you notice persistent redness, swelling or discomfort at the IV site. Ochsner teams are available if you have questions about IV hydration after your visit.

At Ochsner Health, we are dedicated to leading with innovation and providing care that meets the evolving needs of our patients. Offering urgent care IV therapy is a testament to our commitment to delivering accessible, high-quality healthcare when and where you need it most. 

What are the downsides of IV hydration?

Most people tolerate IV hydration well, but potential side effects may include mild bruising or soreness at the insertion site, temporary flushing, a metallic taste or feeling cool or warm during infusion. Less common risks include vein irritation (phlebitis), swelling from fluid leaking outside the vein (infiltration) and allergic reactions to components. Rare but serious complications, such as infection at the IV site or fluid overload, are moderated by clinical screening, sterile technique and careful dosing during IV hydration therapy.

If you experience chest discomfort, shortness of breath, significant swelling or fever after treatment, seek medical care immediately. Ochsner clinicians assess eligibility, monitor you during the session and provide guidance to reduce risks. 

Is IV hydration therapy safe?
Yes, IV hydration therapy is a safe procedure when administered by trained medical professionals. At all Ochsner urgent cares providing IV hydration, our experienced team follows strict protocols to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the entire treatment. We are committed to providing expert health management you can trust.

Feeling the effects of dehydration? Relief is close by. Our teams are ready to help you rehydrate, recover and get back to feeling your best. Visit one of our Ochsner Urgent Care locations that offers IV hydration therapy for your hydration needs.