IV Therapy Side Effects and What to Expect at Your First Session
By Megan C., RN, Lead Registered Nurse
If you’ve never had an IV before, it’s completely normal to wonder what to expect.
Should you eat beforehand? Does the IV hurt? Are there side effects? And how will you feel once your session is finished?
These are questions I get from first-time clients all the time, so let’s walk through what you can expect before your nurse arrives, during your treatment and afterwards.
The short answer: most people notice little more than a quick pinch when the IV goes in, and sometimes tenderness or bruising at the site afterwards. Less commonly, irritation, swelling, infection or an allergic reaction can occur - which is why your nurse stays with you for the whole session.
Before your nurse arrives: how should you prepare?
There isn’t a huge amount you need to do before your IV, but there are a few things I recommend.
First, have a small snack or meal before your session to help keep your blood sugar stable and help reduce the chance of feeling lightheaded.
I also encourage clients to drink some water before we arrive. I know that might sound strange when you’re booking an IV for hydration, but I still recommend keeping up with your normal water intake before your session. If you’ve been told to limit your fluid intake, follow your doctor’s advice instead.
You can have your IV somewhere you’re comfortable - whether that’s your home, hotel or office. All we really need is somewhere for you to sit back and relax while we get you set up. It also helps to wear a short-sleeve or loose top so we can easily access your arm.
During your IV: what does it feel like?
This is probably the part first-time clients are most nervous about.
You’ll usually feel a quick pinch when your nurse inserts the IV catheter. Once it’s in place, the needle is removed and a small, flexible catheter remains in your vein while your IV is running.
You may notice a cool sensation around the IV site, and some clients feel a little cold or chilly during their infusion. This can happen because IV fluids are typically cooler than your body temperature, and it can be a normal sensation during treatment.
Depending on what’s in your drip, you may also notice a metallic or vitamin-like taste in your mouth while your IV is running.
If something doesn’t feel right, tell your nurse. They’re right there with you and can check the IV or adjust the infusion if appropriate.
What side effects can happen?
IV therapy is generally well tolerated when appropriately administered, but it’s still a medical procedure and side effects can happen.
The most common things you might notice are around the IV site itself, such as temporary discomfort, tenderness or bruising.
Less commonly, irritation, swelling, infection or an allergic reaction can occur. Signs of an allergic reaction can include a rash, itching, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing - tell your nurse straight away if you notice any of these during your IV. The vitamins, minerals or medications within your IV drip can also have their own potential side effects. Your nurse will go through what’s in your IV and anything specific you should be aware of before your treatment begins.
After your IV: how will you feel?
Everyone is different.
Some clients tell me they feel refreshed or more hydrated afterwards, while others don’t notice a dramatic difference straight away and may notice how they feel over the next few hours or even the following day.
Some clients also tell me they feel a little tired after their IV. How you feel afterwards can depend on how you were feeling beforehand, your hydration status, what was in your IV and your individual response to the treatment.
If you do feel tired afterwards, listen to your body, continue drinking water and take it easy if you need to.
Once your treatment is finished, your nurse will remove the catheter, place a dressing over the area and go through anything you need to know before leaving.
And one thing I always tell clients before I leave: keep drinking water and stay hydrated throughout the rest of your day, unless you’ve been told to limit your fluids.
When should you contact us?
Most minor tenderness or bruising around the IV site should settle, but if something doesn’t seem right after your nurse has left, we want you to let us know.
If you notice severe pain, swelling, fever or anything unusual after your treatment, please contact us right away on (347) 920-6597 or at info@theiv.co.
If you experience a medical emergency or severe symptoms, including signs of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or throat, call 911 or seek immediate emergency medical attention.
The biggest thing I want first-time clients to know
Ask questions. When your nurse arrives, they’ll go through what you’re receiving and what to expect. If something feels unusual during your treatment or you simply want to know whether what you’re feeling is normal, tell us.
Mobile IV therapy across New York City
We bring IV therapy to you across Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens - administered by a registered nurse, in your home, office or hotel. Have a question before your first session? Message us first. We’d rather get it right.
Frequently asked questions
How long do IV side effects last?
Minor tenderness or bruising around the IV site usually settles within a few days. If pain, swelling or redness gets worse, or you develop a fever, contact us.
Can I have IV therapy if I take medication or have a medical condition?
Tell us about any medications, supplements or medical conditions when you book. We review your medical history before treatment, and IV therapy may not be suitable for everyone - particularly people with certain heart or kidney conditions.
What if I’m nervous about needles?
Let your nurse know before they start. They’ll talk you through each step, and you’re welcome to lie back or look away while the catheter goes in.
How soon can I book another IV?
It depends on what’s in your IV and why you’re getting it. We cover this in more detail in How Often Should I Get IV Therapy?
This article provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice. Seek medical help for worsening symptoms; call 911 for a medical emergency rather than waiting for a mobile appointment.
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