Intravenous Therapies and Chelation

Dr. Alison Beach, Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Clayton Bostock, Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Faren Brogan, Naturopathic Doctor

Dr. Beach, Dr. Bostock, and Dr. Brogan have taken advanced training in intravenous (IV) therapies. Dr. Beach has also taken training in chelation. Some of the IV therapies that we offer include the following:

IV- Myer’s

IV Myer’s also called a “Myers cocktail” is an intravenous therapy that consists of a combination of vitamins and minerals. It is useful in treating a wide range of conditions and disorders, generating positive results in the intravenuos Rpatients’ overall wellness. The main reason for injecting the vitamins and minerals intravenously is to bypass digestion to achieve plasma concentrations not obtainable by oral administration. The general effect of a Myers Cocktail results in an obvious improvement in the overall function and energy capacity of the cells. If the cells are functioning optimally, a person’s ability to recover from a chronic health condition increases.  It has been found to be effective against ailments such as acute asthma, fatigue (including chronic fatigue), depression, migraines, fibromyalgia, acute muscle spasm, upper respiratory tract infections, chronic sinusitis, cardiovascular disease, seasonal allergic rhinitis and many other disorders.

IV- Vitamin C

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is essential for the body to function properly and is required for processes such as proper immune function and the synthesis of collagen, an important structural component of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bone. Vitamin C also plays a vital role in the synthesis of specific neurotransmitters which are critical for brain function.  Research suggests that Vitamin C is a highly effective antioxidant and that small amounts can protect essential molecules in the body from free radical damage and reactive oxygen species generated during normal metabolism, as well as through exposure to toxins and pollutants. The administration of vitamin C intravenously is used as a powerful support to the body by bypassing the digestive system and getting the nutrition directly into the body.

IV- Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide therapy is rapidly gaining popularity within the complementary medical field but has been used in medicine as far back as the eighteenth century.  Research suggests that when hydrogen peroxide is properly utilized it acts as a catalyst for various needed body processes.  Hydrogen peroxide has also been shown to directly reduce anaerobic bacterial infections and yeast infections, just as the white blood cells in our bodies naturally produce hydrogen peroxide to destroy harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi.  Also, since hydrogen peroxide is H2O2, when it is administered intravenously the oxygen content in the blood and tissues increases. Thus, hydrogen peroxide can be used to treat lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, emphysema, pneumonia and bronchitis. Intravenous infusions of hydrogen peroxide have proven to cleanse the tissue, which enables a person to breathe more freely.

IV and Oral Chelation

Chelation is a term whose root means, “claw” or “to bind”.  Most Chelation is done by introducing an intravenous chelation solution into the veins or by taking chelating agents orally.  The chelator grabs hold of metal ions in the body, forming a chemical compound, which can more easily be excreted by the body.  Excretion is done via urine, feces, and sweat. There are two main indications for chelation therapy including cardiovascular disease and heavy metal toxicity (eg. mercury, lead).

Chelation is commonly used in water treatment plants to clean sediment build-up such as calcium and magnesium salt from the inside of water pipes.  Similarly, in the human body chelation functions as an “arterial treatment system” by pulling calcium out of the vasculature in order to treat atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and related disorders.  Chelation draws out the harmful metal and mineral toxins that form plaques and deliver them to the bloodstream for excretion by the kidneys. Facilitating a binding process, chelation therapy also controls oxidation of fats, and reduces platelet “stickiness” to improve overall circulation. Following chelation therapy, many people feel that they have increased energy and have shed years off their age.

Chelation Therapy is also used in the treatment of heavy metal toxicity. We are exposed to heavy metals through environmental exposure such as lead pipes, amalgams, or working in the mining industry.  We also exposed through food sources such as tuna. Through a similar binding process as previously mentioned, chelating agents bind the heavy metals in the tissues (eg. lead, iron, mercury, copper, etc.) and excrete them from our body.

Chelation therapy can be used in the treatment of the following:

  • Atherosclerosis
  • Heavy Metal Toxicity
  • Hypercalcemia (elevated calcium)
  • Cerebral Vascular Disease (strokes, transient ischemic attacks, etc.)
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Diabetes Mellitus
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Varicose Veins
  • Poor Circulation
  • Scleroderma
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Peripheral Neuropathy
  • Fibromyalgia

Chelation therapy can be utilized as a form of preventative medicine, decreasing the onset of age associated diseases before systems arise.  Healthy individuals will benefit from the multiple therapeutic functions of chelation therapy.

IV- Glutathione

Glutathione is a potent antioxidant and immune system modulator.  Oxidation is a chemical reaction that transfers electrons from a substance to an oxidizing agent. Oxidation reactions can produce free radicals which in turn can start chain reactions that damage cells leading to disease and aging. An antioxidant, such as glutathione, is a molecule capable of inhibiting this process.  Glutathione is a naturally occurring compound produced in most cells of the body and is composed of three amino acids including cysteine, glutamine and glycine. Glutathione in oral doses does not cross the intestinal barrier thus taking oral glutathione does not increase plasma glutathione levels.  As a result, IV-glutathione is used instead.

Research shows a correlation between glutathione levels and longevity. In studies of healthy men and women, glutathione levels were significantly lower in the elderly when compared to younger subjects. People who maintain high levels of glutathione also represent survivors with extreme longevity. Not only can glutathione be used as an anti-aging treatment but also has been show to be effective for many patients who have problems with severe toxicity, kidney disease, central nervous system damage, and cardiovascular disease.

Nebulizing (also known as aerosolizing) a solution of glutathione is also effective for those suffering from respiratory tract disorders such as COPD, and asthma as it allows direct administration of  glutathione to the respiratory tract including the lungs.

Intramuscular Injections

  • B12 and B Complex (B5, B6, B12 and folic acid) Injections:  are effective in eliminating vitamin deficiencies and act as a stimulant for energizing the body. They are useful in the treatment of conditions such as fatigue, stress management, anemia, depression, anxiety and chronic disease.
  • MIC Injections: consist of the amino acids methionine, inositol and choline and well as methylcobalamin (B12).  They are used as part of a weight loss plan to help metabolize fat and boost metabolism.