Who We Are

Stephanie Jennison, NP is a passionate Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of patient care and founder of Optimal Health. Specializing in holistic health and wellness approaches for all ages, detoxification protocols, nutrient and integrative health strategies for her patients’ optimal health and wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • IV Vitamin therapy provides vitamins and nutrients directly into the bloodstream via a vein to improve the body’s state of health and overall well-being.

    IV vitamin therapy has become increasingly more popular in recent times. It is utilized in the pro athlete world to hasten recovery as well as the general population for various maladies such as to boost the immune system and fend off a virus to aid in recovery from jet lag, just to name a few. It has also been shown in some studies to help relieve symptoms of fibromyalgia, migraines, and high blood pressure to name a few.

    In the 1980’s Dr. Myers was among one of the first to discover and administer what has become known as “The Myers cocktail” which is a mixture of calcium, magnesium, Vitamin B Complex, and Vitamin B12. This mixture is used as a preventative measure to boost the immune system as well as to hasten relief from a virus.

    It is important that the individual considering getting an IV consult with a practitioner first to determine which mixture of vitamins would be best for their individual needs and health goals.

  • There are many substances that can be added to an infusion. Depending on the needs and goals of the person at the time, these will vary.

    Generally, here is a list of some of the ingredients found in the most common IV Vitamin Infusions:

    Vitamin C — studies have shown IV Vitamin C to be beneficial as adjunct to chemotherapy in cancer patients as well as sepsis (an infection in the blood). For persons in good health, Vitamin C is known to strengthen the immune system as well as increase energy levels.

    Vitamin B Complex — There are several B Vitamins that make up the complex group: Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Vitamin B5 (Dexpanthenol) and Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). These vitamins play essential roles in optimal cellular function in the body.

    Vitamin B12 also known as methylcobalamin or cyanocobalamin. This serves many purposes in the body, however, the primary purpose is making red blood cells. Lack of red blood cells results in anemia.

    Folic Acid — also known as folate, is helpful in the making of red blood cells also.

    Calcium — necessary for the development and maintenance of bone health.

    Glutathione — also known as “the Master Anti-Oxidant”. It is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system and vital in building and repairing tissue. It acts as an important antioxidant which helps protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. It has also been known to reduce blood pressure, which in turn dilates blood vessels decreasing the risk of stroke or heart arrythmia.

    • The individual will be seated in a very comfortable recliner

    • An IV will be started in their arm and connected to the IV bag

    • The infusion generally takes approx. 1 ½ hours, depending on the mixture and once it is started, there is no discomfort and the person will be able to relax for that time with a warm blanket and cup of tea if requested.

  • Myers cocktail — most common for general wellness and health/immune boost.

    Immune Boosters — provides ingredients that target to strengthen the immune system.

    Metabolism Boosters — designed to boost metabolism assisting in weight management, fat burning, energy levels and improvement in body performance.

    Recovery Enhancers — mainly for athletes or those who perform high intensity exercise. The components of these IV’s target tissue inflammation, shorten recovery time after exercise, replenish exhausted nutrient stores, and help to improve overall athletic performance

    • People recovering from an illness—vitamins and minerals may help boost the immune system to heal quicker

    • People with chronic fatigue or are feeling “run down”

    • People suffering from depression and anxiety

    • Athletes before and after sporting events

    • People who are receiving chemotherapy and want to add high dose Vitamin C which has been shown to be beneficial

    • People wanting to be “pro-active” with their health

  • The average IV treatment lasts an hour to an hour and a half.

    • It helps to alleviates symptoms of dehydration and hangovers

    • It can treat certain nutritional deficiencies.

    • Detoxifies the body

    • Helps to increase energy levels

    • Can help to improve cardiovascular health

    • Can help with easing anxiety

    • Helps to promote a feeling of wellness

    • Helps to boost metabolism aiding in weight loss

    • Be sure to eat a healthy meal including protein.

    • Drink plenty of fluids to help “plump up” your veins

    • Bring along a book or music.

    • Be sure to wear comfortable clothing

  • You should feel some of the effects of the infusion immediately, by feeling more energized and an overall feeling of wellbeing. Most people feel the effect for up to 2-3 weeks. There should be no adverse effects from the infusion.

  • For most instances, every 2-3 weeks for an immune support infusion should be optimal. It can be customized per client based on need.

  • There should be no discomfort while the infusion is in process. The insertion of the needle/catheter may slightly hurt when being placed. We do use lidocaine, a numbing agent on the skin prior to decrease the discomfort. Most people say it is very minor. Drinking fluids prior to the infusion to hydrate well will make the insertion much easier. Some people complain about a feeling of being cold when the fluid is going into the vein. If this happens, we are prepared with heating blankets.

  • No, there are none.

  • IV infusion requires a needle in the vein whereas a booster shot is just a single injection with a basic needle.

  • Yes there are a few conditions that are contraindicated:

    • Congestive heart failure

    • Pregnancy

    • Advanced kidney disease/Dialysis Patient

    • Patent foramen ovale heart defect

    • Limited infusions if breast feeding

    • Each person's medical history will be reviewed prior to each infusion and we reserve the right to refuse service if indicated

  • Unfortunately we cannot accommodate a "companion" animal. Guide dogs are always welcome!