What are supportive IV therapies?
Intravenous therapy delivers a substance through a vein. In cancer care, an infusion may have an established supportive indication, such as treating a documented deficiency, or it may involve an adjunctive or investigational use. These are different clinical situations.
The substance, formulation, route, and intended outcome all matter. A nutrient infusion and an investigational medication infusion should not be presented as equivalent options.
Options that may come up in a consultation.
Discussions in this practice may include high-dose vitamin C, mistletoe, dichloroacetate (DCA), artesunate, curcumin, ozone-related approaches, and alpha-lipoic acid. These names describe different agents or approaches, not a standard infusion package. The proposed route and current availability are confirmed individually.
Some proposed cancer uses are off-label or investigational, with limited human evidence. Listing an option is not evidence that it treats cancer. We review the particular proposal rather than assuming that “IV” means more effective or more appropriate.
Learn separately about mistletoe therapy and repurposed and off-label drugs.
High-dose IV vitamin C: a specific discussion.
Intravenous vitamin C reaches different blood concentrations from oral vitamin C. Studies in cancer have evaluated several settings and combinations, with mixed findings; it is not an established cancer cure.
Assessment includes the proposed purpose, kidney health, relevant laboratory work, and factors such as G6PD deficiency or iron-overload disorders that can affect safety. The timing and compatibility with your oncology regimen also need review.
Before, during & after an infusion.
We review the diagnosis, current cancer treatment, prescriptions, supplements, allergies, recent labs, and the proposed infusion’s risks. You should understand whether the aim is supportive care or an investigational cancer-related use, and how that aim will be assessed.
Risks depend on the substance and can include infusion reactions, allergy, fluid or electrolyte problems, effects on organs, and interactions. IV access also carries risks such as bruising, infection, and vein irritation. Monitoring and follow-up are planned around the individual treatment.
Your standard oncology appointments and surveillance continue. Infusion frequency and duration are discussed only after assessment, rather than promised as a universal course.
Common questions.
Can I receive IV therapy during chemotherapy?
Compatibility depends on the specific infusion and cancer regimen. We review timing, evidence, risks, and coordination before proceeding. Do not assume that separating treatments by a few days eliminates interactions.
Is IV vitamin C the same as taking vitamin C tablets?
No. The route produces different blood concentrations and has different safety considerations. Evidence from one route should not be assumed to apply to the other.
Do I need laboratory testing first?
Relevant lab work and substance-specific screening are reviewed before treatment. Requirements depend on the proposed infusion and your health.
Can I book a specialized infusion without being an ongoing patient?
Specialized IV services may be considered by referral from your primary care provider, subject to assessment, records, and the clinic’s current requirements. Contact Healthcode Regenerative to confirm the appropriate pathway.
Learn more.
These resources explain the approach and the evidence discussed above. Research findings are interpreted in the context of your diagnosis and care.
Page updated November 2026.
Care with Dr. Jeff Martineau, BScH, BHSc, ND
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