Located at the American Day Spa, in Belmont, Massachusetts, Ivy Drip Bar and WellnessCenter provides customized nutrient drips. These are intravenous (IV) formulations of vitamins and minerals that are administered directly into the bloodstream to address a variety of health issues. A body’s ability to absorb adequate amounts of nutrition from food or oral supplements can be limited. Nutrient drips are a safe and effective method of replenishing the body’s fluids, vitamins, minerals and amino acids more readily.

Dr. Meredith Scannell, owner of The Ivy Drip Bar, has been in the healthcare industry for 35 years. She earned a Ph.D. in nursing and has a strong background in supporting women’s health as an advanced nurse practitioner and certified nurse midwife.

Prior to receiving a treatment, clients are required to complete an intake form. During the initial session, Scannell reviews the health history, discusses what the client is looking for and educates the client in the IV treatment process. Some people use IV nutrient therapies to prevent or fight an infection. Others use them as part of their health regimen, choosing solutions designed to hydrate, improve brain power or reduce stress. Still others use the method to treat medical illnesses like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and chronic pain.

The nutrient formulations are chosen based on what each client’s body requires. Many of the customized IV nutrient drips are 500 milliliters and take approximately 30 minutes to infuse. The drips are formulated by Olympia Pharmaceuticals, a full-service, FDA-approved compounding pharmacy.

As an example, the Immunity formulation provides zinc, vitamin C and complex B vitamins to boost the immune system and decrease the duration of flu and cold-like symptoms. Alleviate, formulated to help relieve PMS symptoms, bloating, irritability, abdominal discomfort and lower back pain, provides calcium, magnesium and complex B vitamins, including B-12. This customized formula is also helpful for men that may experience muscle cramps and restless leg syndrome. Myers’ Cocktail, named for Dr. John Myers who pioneered the use of intravenous nutrient therapy in the 1960s, is the gold standard for delivering intravenous vitamins and minerals directly to the bloodstream. It provides a combination of essential vitamins and nutrients.