A thin cannula is placed in a vein and the solution drips in slowly at a steady rate, so the ingredients enter the bloodstream directly rather than through the digestive tract. Several of the drips are made up in normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride). Each infusion is prepared on site just before it is given, and the specialist can adjust the composition to your health if needed.<\/p>\n
Each line links to the drip's own page and its full details.<\/p>\n
The specialist measures your blood pressure and pulse and asks about your health, chronic illnesses, medicines and allergies. Healthy people usually do not need a blood test beforehand; with a chronic condition (such as kidney or liver disease, or diabetes) or a known vitamin or mineral deficiency, the specialist may suggest tests first.<\/p>\n
Each drip's contraindications are listed on its page. Medicines prescribed by your doctor should not be stopped without their advice. The final decision is made by the specialist at the consultation.<\/p>\n
Water and no hard exercise on the same day are advised; the service pages recommend no alcohol for 12\u201324 hours. Mild tiredness, drowsiness or a chilly feeling may occur and usually pass quickly. Occasionally there is redness or a small bruise at the cannula site, or a metallic taste in the mouth. Any unusual symptoms should be reported to the specialist straight away.<\/p>\n
Most people feel only a brief prick as the cannula goes in; the infusion itself is usually not painful, and the rate can be slowed.<\/p>\n
No. It does not replace a balanced diet or treatment prescribed by a doctor. If a deficiency has been diagnosed, treatment is decided by your own doctor.<\/p>\n