KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — IV therapy is a growing trend offered at various medical spas across East Tennessee.
In 2021, Grow Wellness on Kingston Pike became one of the first in Knoxville to offer the service.
"It's been very exciting. It's been a great journey for us, and we love what we're doing," Grow Wellness registered nurse Rebekah McCulloch said.
According to an article published by Harvard Health in 2020, "the relatively new trend allows people to receive IV fluids even when it's not considered medically necessary or recommended by a doctor."
The publication by Harvard Health claims IV therapy can help with issues such as hangovers, dehydration, food poisoning or jet lag.
The service is not covered by health insurance. At Grow Wellness, prices range between $95 and $150.
Dr. Logan Dedmond at Fountain City Family Physicians recommends checking with a doctor before committing to the infusions.
"The ideal candidate for IV therapy is someone who is trying to maximize their wellness and health in general," Dr. Dedmond said. "But for those who have more underlying conditions, they may want to talk to their primary care doctor first before venturing out into some of these new therapies."
"I wouldn't recommend this for someone who had kidney disease, if they have heart disease, or if they have uncontrolled hypertension," McCulloch said. At Grow Wellness, she said, an extensive medical evaluation is conducted with every patient before their session.
McCulloch said most customers start by coming in every two weeks, then return for monthly maintenance.
"It is just a very rewarding career—to help people in their healing process and get to know them and work with them on a weekly, monthly basis. It's just very rewarding," McCulloch said.