This page is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. An in-person consultation with Dr Joosab is required before any treatment is prescribed or administered. HPCSA Reg. No. 0736686.
IV infusion therapy delivers vitamins, minerals and fluids directly into your bloodstream through a small intravenous drip, bypassing the digestive system. Because nutrients reach your bloodstream directly, the body absorbs close to 100% of what’s administered, compared with the 20 to 50% typical with oral supplements. At Dr Y Joosab Medical Practice, IV infusion therapy is available at both the Overport practice (122 Crescent Street, Shop 4) and the KwaMashu rooms (175 Nyala Road, Suite 3, L Section), administered under GP supervision.
If you’re considering an IV drip and want to know what a session involves, which formulations are available or whether you’re a suitable candidate, this page covers all of that.
What is IV infusion therapy?
IV infusion therapy, sometimes called intravenous vitamin therapy or an IV drip, is the administration of a fluid solution containing vitamins, minerals, electrolytes or other nutrients directly into a vein. The drip runs over 30 to 60 minutes depending on the volume and composition.
The term “IV drip” is used loosely in South Africa to cover everything from basic saline hydration to a customised blend of vitamin C, glutathione, B-complex vitamins and amino acids. What separates a GP-administered IV drip from a wellness lounge setting is the clinical assessment that comes first. Dr Joosab reviews your symptoms, medical history and any recent blood results before recommending a formulation. If something in your history makes an IV infusion inappropriate, he’ll tell you directly.
What conditions and goals does IV infusion therapy support?
IV therapy is not a treatment for serious illness and it doesn’t replace medication for managed conditions. What it does address is nutrient deficiencies, dehydration and recovery where the body needs targeted support that oral intake isn’t delivering.
Patients at the practice typically come in for IV infusions to address:
- Chronic fatigue and low energy that doesn’t improve with sleep or rest
- Dehydration after illness, extended travel, heat exposure or competitive sport
- Frequent illness or slow recovery from colds and respiratory infections
- Documented vitamin B12 or vitamin C deficiency confirmed by blood test
- Recovery from acute gastroenteritis or vomiting where oral intake has been limited
- General wellness support, particularly for patients with high-stress lifestyles or restrictive diets
What types of IV infusions are available at the practice?
The right infusion depends on what you’re trying to address. During your consultation, Dr Joosab will discuss your symptoms, check any recent bloods you’ve had done and recommend the appropriate formulation. Common options include:
Hydration drip
A saline or Ringer’s lactate solution that restores fluid and electrolyte balance quickly. Good for dehydration from illness, exercise or prolonged heat exposure. A basic hydration drip typically runs for 30 to 45 minutes.
Vitamin C infusion
High-dose intravenous vitamin C supports immune function and assists recovery from illness. The oral route for vitamin C has an absorption ceiling; the GI tract can only process a limited amount before the rest is excreted. IV bypasses that limitation completely.
B-complex and B12 infusion
Delivers B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12 directly into the bloodstream, targeting fatigue, brain fog and low mood. Particularly useful for patients with confirmed B12 deficiency, those following a plant-based diet and older adults who absorb B12 less efficiently from food.
Glutathione infusion
Glutathione is one of the body’s main antioxidants, produced naturally in the liver. IV glutathione is used to support detoxification, reduce oxidative stress and assist recovery. Some patients request it for skin-related reasons. The evidence base is still developing; Dr Joosab will set realistic expectations during your consultation.
Myers’ Cocktail-style infusion
A combination drip that typically includes magnesium, calcium, B-vitamins and vitamin C. Used for fatigue, stress recovery, fibromyalgia symptoms and general wellness. The formulation can be adjusted based on individual need.
What happens during a session?
Your first visit starts with a consultation. Dr Joosab will ask about your symptoms, current medications and any relevant medical history. If you’ve had recent blood tests, bring the results with you. They help narrow down exactly what the infusion should contain and allow Dr Joosab to screen for any contraindications.
Once a formulation is agreed, you’ll be seated comfortably while a cannula is placed in a vein, usually in the arm. The drip runs for 30 to 60 minutes. Most patients read, use their phone or rest during this time. You can drive home afterwards and continue with your normal day.
Is IV drip therapy safe? What to know before booking
IV infusion therapy is safe when administered by a qualified medical professional using sterile, single-use equipment. Risks are low but exist. The most common minor issues are bruising or discomfort at the cannula site and, occasionally, mild nausea if the infusion runs too quickly. Both are managed on the spot.
The clinical advantage of a GP setting is the screening step. Dr Joosab checks for contraindications before any infusion is given. Patients with kidney disease, heart failure, certain electrolyte imbalances or specific medication interactions may not be suitable candidates. This is clinical judgement a wellness provider without medical training isn’t equipped to make.
Who is a good candidate for IV infusion therapy in Durban?
You don’t need to be unwell to benefit from an IV drip. Many patients come in periodically as part of managing their energy and health, particularly if they have demanding work schedules, follow restrictive diets, train intensively or travel frequently for work.
IV therapy is not suitable for everyone. If you have kidney disease, heart failure or certain autoimmune conditions, Dr Joosab will advise against it. The consultation is where that determination is made.
How much does IV infusion therapy cost in Durban?
Pricing depends on the formulation chosen. Contact the practice directly for current rates: Overport 031 271 3056 | KwaMashu 031 501 1033. Same-day bookings are available for most infusion types.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to book an IV drip at the practice?
No referral is needed. Call either practice directly to book a consultation. The consultation is where Dr Joosab confirms which infusion is appropriate for you and ensures it’s safe given your medical history.
How often should I get an IV drip?
This depends on what you’re using it for. A patient correcting a significant B12 deficiency might need weekly infusions for a month, followed by monthly maintenance. Someone using IV therapy for general wellness might come in every six to eight weeks. Dr Joosab gives a specific recommendation based on your situation.
Can IV infusion therapy replace oral supplements?
For most people with mild deficiencies, oral supplementation is the appropriate first step. IV therapy is better suited to cases where gut absorption is a known issue, where a deficiency is significant enough to need rapid correction, or where oral supplements haven’t produced results after a reasonable trial period.
Is IV drip therapy available at both practice locations?
Yes. IV infusion therapy is available at 122 Crescent Street, Shop 4, Overport (031 271 3056) and 175 Nyala Road, Suite 3, L Section, KwaMashu (031 501 1033). Call to confirm availability on the day you’d like to come in.
Does medical aid cover IV infusion therapy?
Coverage depends on your specific medical aid plan and the clinical indication for the infusion. A drip administered as part of treatment for a diagnosed deficiency or acute illness may qualify for a claim. An elective wellness infusion typically falls outside the scope of medical aid benefits. Dr Joosab’s rooms will advise at your consultation.
