IV therapy in Oakville is offered in many places, from naturopathic clinics to drip bars and mobile services. Before you book anywhere, it helps to know who is allowed to give IVs in Ontario, what a proper assessment looks like and which red flags to watch for. This guide explains what you need to know, and how IV therapy works at Inside Health.
Who Can Give IV Therapy in Ontario
In Ontario, IV therapy is a controlled act. Naturopathic doctors may prescribe and give IV therapy only after completing additional training and passing an examination, and they must follow the College of Naturopaths of Ontario’s standards for IV infusion therapy. Other regulated professionals, such as physicians and nurses, follow the rules of their own colleges. You can check any naturopathic doctor’s registration on the College of Naturopaths of Ontario website.
What a Proper IV Assessment Includes
- A full health history, including diagnoses, surgeries, medications and supplements
- Your reasons for asking about an IV and your health goals
- Relevant blood work, such as kidney function, a complete blood count, iron studies and a G6PD test
- Blood pressure, heart rate and weight
- A clear explanation of what is recommended, why, the risks and the cost
At Inside Health, every IV plan starts this way. Many people find that diet changes or oral supplements are a better fit, and we will tell you if that is the case. Read more in how we decide whether an IV is right for you.
Red Flags to Watch For
- A menu of pre-set “drips” you can choose without an assessment
- No blood work or health history before your first IV
- Promises that an IV will cure or treat a disease
- No clear answer about who prepares and gives the IV, or their credentials
- Pressure to buy a large package up front
- No monitoring during the IV
What an IV Visit at Inside Health Looks Like
- Check-in and vital signs: we confirm how you are feeling and whether anything has changed.
- An individually prepared IV: based on your assessment and results.
- Placement: a trained practitioner places a small catheter, usually in the arm.
- Monitored rest: usually 30 to 90 minutes in a comfortable chair.
- Check-out: the catheter is removed and we make sure you feel well before you leave.
Our IV preparation guide explains what to eat, drink and wear on the day. For a step-by-step look at your first appointment, see what to expect during your first IV therapy session.
Possible Side Effects
Most IVs are well tolerated when properly screened and monitored. The most common side effects are mild bruising or tenderness at the site, a cool feeling in the arm and feeling light-headed. Less often, a vein can become irritated or a reaction can occur. Your practitioner reviews the risks with you before you consent, and you can stop at any time.
Who Should Not Have IV Therapy
IV therapy may not be appropriate, or may need extra caution, for people with reduced kidney function, certain heart conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, pregnancy, some medications or a history of reactions. These are some of the reasons screening comes first.
Working With Your Other Health Care Providers
With your permission, we share your IV plan with your family doctor or specialist, and we never ask you to stop a prescribed medication. If you are unsure whether to see a naturopath, our article on choosing the right care in Oakville may help.
Questions to Ask Any IV Provider
- Who will assess me, and what are their credentials?
- What blood work do you require before my first IV?
- What exactly will be in my IV, and why?
- Who prepares and gives the IV, and how will I be monitored?
- What happens if I have a reaction?
- Will you share my plan with my family doctor?
A qualified provider will be happy to answer all of these before you book. If the answers are vague, keep looking.
Cost and Insurance
The assessment is billed as a naturopathic visit, which many extended health plans in Ontario cover. Lab work and IV visits are billed separately. OHIP does not cover naturopathic care. You will receive a written estimate before you commit. See our IV therapy cost guide for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for IV therapy?
No. You can book an assessment directly with one of our naturopathic doctors.
Can I get an IV the same day I book?
Usually not. Most people need blood work reviewed first.
How do I know a clinic is qualified?
Ask who will assess you and who will give the IV, and check their registration with their regulatory college.
Is IV therapy safe?
When it is properly screened, prepared and monitored, IV therapy is generally well tolerated. Like any procedure with a needle, it carries some risk.
Book IV Therapy in Oakville
To start with an assessment, book online through Jane with any of our naturopathic doctors, or call Inside Health at 905-842-6654. General information is on our IV therapy page.