Flu treatment using Intravenous Micronutrient Therapy (IVMT)

By Jon Kalman, ND

The “flu season” will be in full swing by the time this edition is published.  Of course, flu season can last 8 months according to the Centers for Disease Control (www.CDC.gov).  To make matters more morose, the southwest (including So Cal) is experiencing widespread infections of the influenza virus.  The CDC has also recommended against the use of Amantadine and Rimantadine for the treatment or prophylaxis of influenza in the United States during the 2005–06 influenza season.  This is due in part to recent research showing that the viruses are developing stronger resistance to these drugs.

The naturopathic approach to flu prevention and treatment with IVMT.

Vibrant health is the responsibility of both doctor and patient.  The susceptibility and severity of influenza infection can be dependent on the general health of the patient.  Reducing the intake of simple sugars, keeping hydrated in these dry winter months, breathing heated/steamed air like in a sauna (viruses cannot thrive in high heat) are simple ways to sustain resistance. 

Avoidance activities such as hand washing before touching the eyes and mouth can do wonders for avoiding self-infection.  Most health conscious people are already aware of using Oscillococcinum, Sambucus (Elderberry), Vitamin A, zinc, and Vitamin C.  Clinical experience shows us that frequent dosing is necessary to obtain desired results.  But sometimes, that is not enough.  IVMT therapy is the administration of high doses of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients intravenously - meaning directly into your blood.  Compared to taking these nutrients orally, the blood concentration of these ingredients can reach levels far beyond what is possible by taking them by mouth.  And the subsequent high blood levels allow greater quantities into the cells.

Patients over the age of 50 can greatly benefit from IVMT due to nutrient absorption difficulties secondary to the aging process.  Low stomach digestive acids affects nutrient absorption, so the minerals associated with healthy immunity like magnesium, selenium and zinc may become deficient.  During viral illnesses, the body consumes large stores of available nutrients to combat the illness as well as decreasing the energy that is required for the active transport of nutrients into cells.  IVMT therapy can overcome this difficulty and hasten recovery time.  Many of you may have experienced the lingering viral illness that you just can’t shake; ie. 2-3 months of fatigue.  These cases respond remarkably well to IVMT therapy due to the high concentration of energy producing co-factors and antiviral compounds that IVMT can provide.

IVMT is a mildly invasive procedure involving the insertion of a needle into a vein.  The treatment is usually painless and has almost no side-effects due to the nature of the ingredients being used.  The in-office procedure is also a time to kick your feet up in a relaxing chair and take a well-needed break.