Singer and actor Ray J rushed his mother to the hospital after a bad reaction to the celebrity-popularized IV therapy, TMZ reported.
A few weeks ago, Ray J’s mom, Sonja Norwood, decided to try an at-home IV therapy many celebrities like Justin Bieber, Rhianna and Chrissy Teigan rave about.
But Sonja began experiencing light-headedness and started rapidly breathing. The scare drove Ray J and their family to call for medical assistance. Sonja was then checked into a hospital, where she is in good condition.
The outlet reported she underwent an IV vitamin therapy that contained a mixture of vitamins C and B, calcium and magnesium.
According to the Houston Methodist, TV shows like Grey’s Anatomy and ER, as well as celebrities, have popularized IV therapy. Many became infatuated with the method because drip bars and IV therapy lounges sell that the concoction of vitamins and nutrients cures hangovers, clears the complexion, helps with one’s weight loss journey, alleviates chronic pain, detox the body, increases fitness performance and recovery, enhances focus, improves immunity and boosts libido.
However, Dr. Joshua Septimus, an associate professor of clinical medicine and medical director of Houston Methodist Primary Care Group Same Day Clinics, says these lounges and drip bars practically sell a gimmick.
“While it’s true that an IV can speed up how quickly things enter your bloodstream, it’s unlikely that boutique IV therapy companies can actually achieve what they claim — whether that’s curing a hangover, boosting your immune system, enhancing focus and the list goes on,” Dr. Septimus said.
He added, like many oral vitamins, the drips aren’t FDA-approved, which means the claims aren’t clinically validated, and it’s not sure that the IV vitamin therapy has any real benefits.
Many people can receive vitamins in the drips through foods they eat instead of an IV, which poses risks. And it’s advised that IV therapy be done in clinical settings.
“If you receive an IV while in the hospital, it’s because you need it,” Dr. Septimus said. “IV therapy is a routine procedure that’s incredibly standardized and safe in the clinical setting. Most importantly, it’s administered by professionals.”
In addition to swelling, pain and scarring, IV therapy comes with severe symptoms because of the contents in the IV bag.
“…an improperly administered IV drop can come with fairly serious complications, such as clotting, inflammation, a bloodstream infection and electrolyte imbalance.”
