Vitamin C appears in almost every IV drip on the menu, but the High Vitamin C Infusion at Viva Wellness Drip Edmonton is a different category. It delivers vitamin C at doses far above what a standard wellness drip contains, and for that reason it is only formulated after a comprehensive naturopath consultation. This guide explains why high-dose vitamin C is handled differently, what the consultation covers and what to expect if you are cleared to proceed.
Vitamin C at Normal Doses
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin the body cannot make on its own. According to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, it is required for collagen synthesis, wound healing and immune function, and it acts as an antioxidant. The same fact sheet explains that when taken orally, absorption falls as the dose rises, so very large oral doses are mostly excreted. This is why drips such as Immune Boost and the Myers’ Cocktail include vitamin C intravenously: the IV route achieves blood levels that oral intake cannot.
What “High-Dose” Means
A standard wellness infusion might contain vitamin C in the range of one to a few grams. High-dose protocols use significantly more, often measured in tens of grams. At those levels, vitamin C behaves differently in the body, and the considerations change accordingly.
High-dose intravenous vitamin C has been studied in a number of settings. The National Cancer Institute maintains a plain-language summary of that research, noting that studies are ongoing and that results so far are not conclusive. At Viva Wellness Drip, the High Vitamin C Infusion is offered as a wellness service for clients seeking high doses of vitamin C, not as a treatment for any disease. Anyone with a medical condition should discuss high-dose vitamin C with their physician before booking.
Why a Comprehensive Consultation Is Required
Every first-time client at Viva Wellness Drip completes a 10-minute naturopath consultation. For the High Vitamin C Infusion, the consultation is more detailed, for several reasons.
- G6PD deficiency. People with this inherited enzyme deficiency can experience a serious reaction to high-dose vitamin C. Screening, sometimes including a blood test, is essential.
- Kidney function. Vitamin C is metabolized to oxalate, and high doses can increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Kidney health and stone history are reviewed.
- Iron overload conditions. Vitamin C increases iron absorption and may not be appropriate for people with hemochromatosis.
- Medications. High-dose vitamin C can interact with certain drugs and can affect some blood glucose readings.
- Fluid volume. High-dose protocols are delivered in larger volumes over longer periods, which matters for clients with heart or kidney considerations.
The naturopath uses this information to decide whether the infusion is appropriate and, if so, to formulate the specific protocol, including dose, volume and infusion time.
What to Expect From the Infusion
If you are cleared, a registered nurse comes to your home or office anywhere in Edmonton. Because of the larger volume, a high-dose vitamin C infusion takes longer than a standard drip; plan for one to two hours depending on the protocol. The nurse places the IV, starts the infusion at the prescribed rate and remains with you throughout, monitoring how you feel.
Some clients notice a warm sensation, mild thirst or a metallic taste. These are common and usually mild. Drinking water before and after helps. Mild bruising at the site is possible.
It also helps to understand why the naturopath sets a specific infusion time. At high doses, vitamin C must be delivered slowly enough for the body to handle the volume and the change in blood chemistry comfortably. Rushing the drip does not improve the result and can make the session unpleasant, so the rate written into your protocol is there for comfort and safety, and the nurse will follow it exactly.
Preparing for Your Session
- Eat a proper meal an hour or two beforehand.
- Hydrate well throughout the day.
- Bring your medication and supplement list to the consultation, and mention any history of kidney stones.
- If a G6PD test is requested, complete it before the infusion is scheduled.
- Block out enough time so you are not rushing.
High-Dose vs. Standard Vitamin C
For most wellness goals, the vitamin C included in Immune Boost, Super Immune Boost or the Myers’ Cocktail is sufficient. The High Vitamin C Infusion is for clients who specifically want higher doses and who have completed the comprehensive consultation. You can compare all vitamin C-containing options on the services page. If you are unsure which is right for you, book the standard consultation first and ask.
Safety and Oversight
The additional screening exists because high doses carry additional considerations. Every infusion is administered by a registered nurse, with oversight from a Medical Director, and the naturopath’s protocol is followed exactly. The service does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition.
Clinical rigour is a core part of how Viva Wellness Drip operates in every city, including through its franchise program for entrepreneurs who want to offer mobile IV therapy to the same standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the High Vitamin C Infusion require a separate consultation?
High doses carry additional considerations, including G6PD deficiency, kidney function and medication interactions. The comprehensive consultation screens for these and sets the protocol.
Do I need a blood test before high-dose vitamin C?
Possibly. The naturopath may request a G6PD test or other blood work before scheduling the infusion.
How long does a high-dose vitamin C IV take?
Longer than a standard drip because of the larger volume. Plan for one to two hours depending on the protocol.
Can high-dose vitamin C treat illness?
It is offered as a wellness service, not a treatment. Research into high-dose vitamin C is ongoing and not conclusive. Discuss any medical condition with your physician.
Is regular Immune Boost enough for most people?
For general immune and wellness support, yes. The High Vitamin C Infusion is for clients who specifically want higher doses and have been cleared through the comprehensive consultation.
