Vascular (IV) Therapies.

Vascular therapies is the shared name for applications in which vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants are delivered through a vein as a controlled infusion. With oral supplements, absorption depends on conditions in the stomach and gut, on what is eaten alongside them and on a person's digestion. Through a vein the content enters the circulation directly and the amount given is known. At his clinic in Nişantaşı, Dr. Levent Ünal treats these applications not as an off the shelf package but as support planned individually after taking a history and, where needed, reviewing laboratory results.

What this category covers

The applications below are not interchangeable. Each has its own content and rationale, and which one fits is decided after an assessment.

• NAD+: a coenzyme involved in cellular energy metabolism, given as a long, slow infusion.
• Glutathione: an antioxidant the body makes itself, involved in processes linked to oxidative stress.
• High dose vitamin C: aims at blood levels that oral intake cannot reach, and calls for laboratory checks beforehand.
• Alpha lipoic acid: a compound soluble in both fat and water, known for its antioxidant property.
• Myers cocktail: the long established classic mix of B group vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium and calcium.
• Fat Burn: a cocktail of amino acids and vitamins involved in fat metabolism, used alongside a diet and exercise routine.
• Beauty Cocktail: an antioxidant and vitamin mix aimed at the look of the skin.
• Collagen Booster: contents that support the building blocks used in collagen production.

Who it is considered for

People who describe a demanding schedule, irregular eating, disrupted sleep or a tiredness that has lasted a long time often ask about this group. So do people looking for support after long travel, heavy work periods or a restricted diet. That said, vascular therapies do not treat any disease and do not replace a diagnosis.

Persistent fatigue can have causes that deserve investigation, such as a thyroid disorder, anaemia, B12 or vitamin D deficiency, or sleep apnoea. For that reason the consultation begins with a genuine assessment, and tests are requested when needed. People with a history of kidney or heart failure, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, anyone on regular medication or blood thinners, and those with a known enzyme deficiency are assessed more carefully; in some cases the application is not suitable.

How a session runs

Your history is taken, your medications and supplements are reviewed and your expectations are discussed. If the plan is appropriate, a fine catheter is placed in an arm vein and the content is given at a set rate. You rest seated or lying down throughout; the flow rate is kept under observation and slowed if anything feels uncomfortable. When the infusion ends the catheter is removed, brief pressure is applied to the entry site, and you can usually return to daily life the same day.

Safety and preparation

An infusion may look simple, but it is a medical procedure. All materials are single use, mixes are prepared fresh before each session, and the application is carried out under medical supervision. Bringing a written list of your medications, vitamins and herbal products makes the assessment easier. If you have ever reacted to an infusion before, please say so. Leaving some room around your appointment time means the session need not be rushed.

What to pay attention to afterwards

• Drinking plenty of water and avoiding very heavy exercise on the day are usually advised.
• A small bruise or tenderness at the entry site can occur and settles quickly.
• Coming in after a light meal rather than on an empty stomach makes the session more comfortable.
• You are asked to call the clinic if anything unexpected develops.

Points that are often confused

Vascular therapies are not a "detox" method and do not replace the natural work of the liver and kidneys. Nor can a single session be said to produce a lasting change. Weight loss, skin lightening and similar outcomes are not promised. Content and dose are set per person, results vary from person to person, and every plan requires a medical assessment.