Infusion Therapy
Also known as: intravenous drugs, IV drugs.
What is infusion therapy?
Infusion therapy is typically used to refer to any drug that is administered intravenously (with an IV bag).
What happens during the procedure?
All forms of infusion therapy begin with a needle being inserted into a vein or via a catheter mediport or PICC line. In the case of traditional infusion therapy that is administered intravenously, the patient will have to sit or lie while the medication is infused from the IV bag into the body.
Is any special preparation needed?
Preparation will vary widely based on the medication that is given. In some cases, you may need to stop taking certain other medication prior to the infusion therapy. In other cases no special preparation is needed.
What are the risk factors?
Risk factors can vary based on the medication given. Pain, swelling or redness at the injection site, bleeding and infection are potential risks of most forms of infusion therapy.
Reviewed by: Ziad A Khatib, MD
This page was last updated on: 9/16/2025 12:46:52 PM
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