Vitamin infusions available (further information below):
Myer’s nutrient infusion (aka Myer’s cocktail)
Glutathione
Also available by injection: Vitamin D3 and Vitamin B12
INTRAVENOUS (IV) VITAMIN C
How IV Vitamin C Therapy Works
When given intravenously, high levels of vitamin C in the blood generate the production of hydrogen peroxide, a known toxin to cancer cells. Whereas normal cells have the ability to reduce the effects of hydrogen peroxide, cancer cells do not have the same mechanism of action in this regard.
In laboratory experiments of human lymphoma cancer cells, hydrogen peroxide exposure results in cell death. When high doses of vitamin C is added to human lymphoma cancer cells, cell death was identical and due to the generation of hydrogen peroxide from the vitamin C IV.
These experiments show vitamin C at high concentrations does not work as an anti-oxidant as it does when given orally at lower doses, but as a pro-oxidant. Pro-oxidants cause cancer cell death due to the low levels of anti-oxidant properties present in tumor cells. Vitamin C at high doses only acts as a pro-oxidant, similar in mechanism to some cancer medication therapies but without the toxic side effects. i offer this additional treatment in conjunction with a patient's chemotherapy regimen.
Side Effects of IV Vitamin C Therapy
There are very few side effects associated with high doses of intravenous vitamin C. A small percentage of the population has a deficiency in the enzyme known as Glucose-6-Phospate Dehydrogenase, or G6PD. This enzyme is found in the blood and is necessary for the production of glutathione in red blood cells. Glutathione is a powerful anti-oxidant and is able to reduce hydrogen peroxide in the protection of normal cells. A simple blood test is used to determine the presence of this enzyme.
High dose vitamin C is contraindicated in patients with an iron overload disease. It is also contraindicated in patients with renal insufficiency or renal failure, or those undergoing dialysis.
MYER'S NUTRIENT INFUSION
A Myer’s Nutrient Infusion, also called a Myer's Cocktail Infusion (MCI), is a combination of intravenous vitamins and minerals to help the treatment of a wide range of ailments and to increase energy. Ingredients include: Vitamin B-5 (Dexapanthenol), Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine hydrochloride), Vitamin B-12 (Methylcobalamin), Vitamin B-100, Magnesium chloride, Calcium gluconate, and Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid). The intravenous (IV) administration of nutrients can achieve serum concentrations not obtainable with oral, or even intramuscular (IM) injections.
Dr. John Myers, a Maryland physician, originally developed this infusion 40 years ago. It was further modified by his successor, Dr. Alan Gaby, MD. At Integrative Health, the MCI is formulated specifically to match with individual’s condition and needs. All ingredients are individually measured at each appointment and are drawn into a syringe of warmed sterile diluents to an appropriate osmolality of the solution. After gently mixing by turning the syringe a few times, the solution is administered over a period of 15-30 minutes (depending on the doses of minerals used and on individual tolerance) through a sterile single use butterfly needle. Doses are different for elderly and frail patients. Doses for children are reduced roughly in proportion to body weight.
Generally, a weekly or bi-weekly infusion over the course of one to three months or a longer period are given.
The risks of this procedure are very minimal, similar to that of any procedure that breaks the skin or enters a vein and may cause local irritation or bruising.
GLUTATHIONE
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant and immune system stimulant. Found naturally in the body, produced by the liver, glutathione is made up of three amino acids: cysteine, glycine, and glutamate. It is involved in synthesis of DNA and proteins and reducing levels of free radicals. Intravenous glutathione is the most effective way to restore depleted levels. Use of oral glutathione supplements may cause cramping and bloating and are not well absorbed. It can be a difficult process for oral Glutathione to be broken down in the gut and then be reassembled within the bloodstream before it can be utilized.
Maintaining optimal levels of glutathione is essential to health. Glutathione has a key role in antioxidant defense, immune system enhancement, synthesis of DNA and improving the body’s function of reducing and eliminating unhealthy chemicals, heavy metals, molds, toxins and pathogens, which have found their way into our bodies, whether through a recent exposure or absorbed over years.
PAYMENT FOR IV THERAPIES
*Payment for the office visit is made at time of service, by check, cash or credit card. There is an additional 3% charge added to credit card billings. Some fees may be reimbursable by your health insurance if you submit your superbill receipt to your insurance. For more information, please see our Financial Policy and check with your insurance.