IV therapy has exploded in popularity — and for good reason. When you deliver vitamins, minerals, and amino acids directly into the bloodstream, you bypass the digestive system entirely, achieving 100% bioavailability versus the 10-30% absorption you get from oral supplements. But if you've never had an IV drip outside of a hospital, the idea can feel intimidating. It shouldn't. Let me walk you through exactly what your first session looks like at Zen.
Choosing Your Drip
We don't do generic one-size-fits-all bags at Zen. Your drip is selected based on your specific needs:
- Myers' Cocktail: The classic — B-complex, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium. Ideal for general wellness, immune support, and energy
- High-Dose Vitamin C (25g-75g): Powerful immune support and antioxidant therapy. Requires a G6PD test before your first session
- NAD+ Infusion (250mg-500mg): Cellular energy restoration, cognitive enhancement, anti-aging. Our most requested drip
- Glutathione Push: The "master antioxidant" — detoxification, skin brightening, liver support
- Athlete Recovery: Amino acids, B-vitamins, magnesium, zinc — designed for post-workout recovery and performance
- Hydration Plus: Electrolytes, B-vitamins, and trace minerals. Perfect for jet lag, hangovers, or general dehydration
If you're not sure which drip is right for you, that's exactly what your consultation is for. I'll review your symptoms, goals, and any relevant lab work to recommend the optimal formulation.
The Day Of
Arrive hydrated — drink at least 16 oz of water in the hour before your appointment. Eat a light meal. Wear a short-sleeved shirt or something with sleeves that roll up easily. That's it — no other preparation needed.
When you arrive, I'll walk you to your private infusion suite. It's a comfortable recliner with a blanket, entertainment options, and refreshments. This is not a sterile hospital room with fluorescent lighting — it's designed to feel like a luxury lounge.
The IV Insertion
I start every IV myself — no techs, no shortcuts. I use the smallest gauge catheter appropriate for your drip, and I'm very particular about finding the right vein. Most patients describe the insertion as a brief pinch lasting 1-2 seconds. Once the catheter is in and taped, you shouldn't feel it at all.
If you're needle-averse, just tell me. I've worked with hundreds of patients who were anxious about needles, and I've got techniques to make it as painless as possible. You're also welcome to look away — most patients do for the insertion and then watch a show for the rest of the session.
During the Infusion
Depending on your drip, the infusion takes 30-90 minutes. A standard Myers' Cocktail runs about 30-45 minutes. High-dose vitamin C and NAD+ infusions take longer (60-90 minutes) because they need to be administered more slowly.
During NAD+ specifically, you may feel a slight warmth in your chest, a mild tightness, or a "flushing" sensation. This is completely normal and related to how NAD+ interacts with your cellular receptors. I adjust the drip rate to keep you comfortable — if the sensation is too intense, I slow it down. It's never painful, just unusual the first time.
For all other drips, most patients feel nothing during the infusion except gradual relaxation. Some people feel a cool sensation as the fluid enters — that's just the temperature difference between the IV solution and your body.
How You'll Feel After
This is the best part. Most patients report feeling noticeably better within hours of their first drip. Common post-IV experiences include:
- Immediate energy boost (especially with B-vitamin and NAD+ drips)
- Mental clarity and improved focus
- Better sleep that night
- Reduced muscle tension and headaches (magnesium's effect)
- A general feeling of "wellness" that's hard to describe but unmistakable
For high-dose vitamin C and NAD+, the full effects often build over 24-48 hours as your cells process the nutrients. By the next morning, most patients describe feeling "reset."
