Your guide to a comfortable, professional and pharmacy-led IV therapy experience.
Booking your first IV vitamin drip can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. You may be wondering what happens, how long it takes and whether the treatment will feel uncomfortable.
At Holden’s Chemist Express, our healthcare team will guide you through every stage, from your clinical consultation to treatment and aftercare.
Not sure which IV drip is right for you?
Get help choosing.
Your Appointment Journey
1. Welcome
When you arrive, our team will confirm your appointment details and introduce you to the healthcare professional looking after you.
2. Clinical Consultation
We will discuss your medical history, current medication, lifestyle and what you are hoping to achieve.
This helps us determine whether IV therapy is suitable for you before any treatment begins.
3. Your Treatment
If treatment is appropriate, your IV drip will be administered in a comfortable clinical environment and monitored throughout.
4. Aftercare
Before you leave, we will provide aftercare guidance and answer any questions you may have.
Your Comfort Comes First
Many people are surprised by how relaxed the experience feels.
Once the cannula has been placed, you can sit back, read, listen to music, catch up on emails or simply switch off while your treatment is administered.
Our clinical team will monitor you throughout and check that you remain comfortable.
How Long Will My Appointment Take?
Clinical Consultation
Your consultation will usually take around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your medical history and treatment goals.
IV Treatment
Most standard IV drips take around 30 to 45 minutes to administer.
Total Visit
Most appointments take around 45 to 60 minutes from arrival to completion.
NAD+ Treatments
NAD+ infusions may take longer depending on the selected dose, infusion rate and individual tolerance.
How Should I Prepare?
💧 Stay Hydrated
Drink water before your appointment unless a healthcare professional has advised you otherwise.
🍽️ Eat Before You Arrive
We recommend having a light meal beforehand rather than arriving on an empty stomach.
👕 Wear Comfortable Clothing
Choose clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up easily so we can access your arm.
💊 Bring Medication Details
Bring an up-to-date list of your medications, supplements, allergies and relevant medical conditions.
📄 Bring Relevant Results
If your treatment requires recent blood results or supporting medical information, bring these with you or provide them before your appointment.
⏰ Arrive on Time
Arriving a few minutes early gives you time to settle in and complete any required information.
What Happens When the IV Is Inserted?
Arm Assessment
Your healthcare professional will assess your arm and select a suitable vein.
Cannula Placement
You may feel a brief scratch as the cannula is inserted, similar to a routine blood test.
Treatment Monitoring
The infusion will begin once the cannula is secure. Our team will monitor the site and check how you are feeling.
Cannula Removal
When treatment is complete, the cannula will be removed and a small dressing will be applied.
What Happens if Treatment Is Not Suitable?
Your safety comes first.
If your medical history, medication, symptoms or clinical assessment suggest that IV therapy is not suitable, treatment will not proceed simply because you booked online.
Our healthcare professional will explain the reason and discuss appropriate next steps or alternative options where possible.
What Happens After My Appointment?
Return to Normal Activities
Many people return to their usual daily activities after treatment.
Follow Your Aftercare Advice
Your healthcare professional will provide guidance based on your treatment and individual circumstances.
Keep the Dressing in Place
You may be advised to leave the small dressing over the cannula site for a short period after treatment.
Contact the Pharmacy
If you have questions or concerns after your appointment, contact the clinic for advice.
You Are in Safe Hands
Every IV therapy appointment at Holden’s Chemist Express takes place within a trusted pharmacy environment and is delivered by trained healthcare professionals.
Every treatment begins with a personalised clinical consultation and suitability assessment. Your medical history, current medication and individual circumstances will be reviewed before treatment.
Not Sure Which IV Drip to Choose?
You do not need to decide before booking.
Our pharmacy team will discuss your health, medication, lifestyle and goals before helping you understand the available treatment options.
Every treatment is subject to a clinical suitability assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the IV hurt?
You may feel a brief scratch when the cannula is inserted, similar to having a routine blood test. Most people find the procedure quick and manageable.
Can I eat before my appointment?
Yes. We recommend eating a light meal beforehand and arriving well hydrated unless you have been advised otherwise.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up easily.
Can I drive afterwards?
Many people are able to drive after their appointment. If you feel unwell, light-headed or uncomfortable, our clinical team will advise you before you leave.
Can I train after my appointment?
Many people return to normal daily activities after treatment. Advice about exercise depends on your treatment, health and how you feel afterwards.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book privately without a GP referral. Some treatments may require recent blood results or further medical information.
What should I bring?
Bring details of your medication, supplements, allergies and relevant medical history. Bring any recent blood results if they relate to the treatment you are considering.
What happens if I feel nervous?
Tell the team when you arrive. We will explain each step, answer your questions and help you feel as comfortable as possible.
What happens if I feel unwell during treatment?
Your treatment will be monitored throughout. Tell your healthcare professional immediately if you feel unwell or experience pain, dizziness or discomfort.
Is IV therapy suitable for everyone?
No. Your medical history, current medication and health status will be reviewed before treatment.
Related Pages
Available at Our Clinics
Scawsby Clinic
Convenient Doncaster location with plenty of free customer parking available directly outside on the retail park.
Eton Avenue Clinic
Convenient Newark location with free street parking nearby, step-free access and easy access from the A1.
Important Information
Individual responses and experiences vary. IV vitamin therapy is intended to support general wellbeing and hydration where clinically appropriate.
IV therapy should be used alongside regular hydration, appropriate sleep, good nutrition, a balanced diet and medical care. It is not a substitute for diagnosis, prescribed medication or medical treatment.
If you are experiencing chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, confusion, persistent vomiting, severe dehydration or other worrying symptoms, seek appropriate medical advice rather than booking a wellbeing treatment.
Ready to Book Your First IV Drip?
Our healthcare team will guide you through every step, answer your questions and assess whether treatment is suitable for you.