Hydration, food, timing, and what to wear all affect how an infusion goes. A short checklist that makes the appointment easier and the outcome better.
Patients ask what they should do before an infusion far less often than they should. A few simple things genuinely change how the appointment goes — how easily we can place the line, how you feel during the session, and how you feel that evening.
The Day Before
- Drink water steadily through the day — well-hydrated veins are markedly easier to access
- Avoid alcohol, which works against hydration
- Sleep as normally as you can manage
- Take your usual medications unless we have told you otherwise
The Morning Of
Eat a real meal beforehand. Infusions on an empty stomach are the single most common cause of lightheadedness during treatment. Wear short sleeves or a top with sleeves that push up easily, and bring something to occupy an hour — a book, headphones, work.
If you have had trouble with blood draws before, tell us at check-in rather than after the third attempt. Small adjustments in positioning, warming, and site selection solve most difficult-access cases.
During the Infusion
Most medical hydration therapy sessions run 45 to 90 minutes depending on the protocol. High-dose vitamin C protocols used in cancer support run longer. You will be seated, monitored, and able to read, work, or sleep.
Tell staff immediately about any coolness at the infusion site, a metallic taste, flushing, or lightheadedness. These are usually easily managed by slowing the rate, and none of them are reasons to endure discomfort quietly.
Nothing about an infusion should be something you push through. Speak up early and we adjust.
Afterward
Keep drinking water and eat normally. Some patients feel noticeably better within hours; others feel tired that evening and better the following day. Both are common. What matters is the trend across a series, not any single session — which is why we track response rather than relying on impressions.
Questions before your first infusion?
Call the office at 856-489-0505. We would rather answer a small question in advance than have you worry about it.
Schedule a ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
- Should I eat before IV therapy?
- Yes. Eat a normal meal beforehand. Receiving an infusion on an empty stomach is the most common cause of lightheadedness during treatment.
- How long does an IV infusion take?
- Most protocols run 45 to 90 minutes. High-dose vitamin C protocols used in cancer support take longer. We will tell you the expected duration when scheduling.
- Are there side effects?
- The common ones are mild and manageable: coolness at the infusion site, a metallic taste, flushing, or lightheadedness. Tell staff right away and we adjust the rate. Serious reactions are rare and are why infusions are clinically monitored.
- Can I drive myself home?
- Most patients drive themselves without difficulty. If it is your first infusion or you are prone to lightheadedness, arrange a ride for that first appointment.
Dr. Molly Fantasia
Medical Director · Innovative Medical Associates
