In-Home IV Rehydration Therapy

Dehydration is commonly associated with light-headedness, a dry mouth, general malaise (tiredness), and decreased urine output. Depending on the cause, dehydration may also be associated with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.  

IV rehydration therapy can be beneficial for conditions such as gastroenteritis (stomach bug), viral illnesses (like the flu), excessive heat exposure and severe morning sickness. IV rehydration may also be beneficial for dehydration secondary to excessive alcohol intake. While oral fluids and rest are usually sufficient, IV rehydration is helpful for people who can’t keep fluids down or remain dehydrated despite drinking oral fluids. 

There is currently no evidence that IV rehydration is an effective treatment for alcohol poisoning, and IV fluids do not shorten the duration of alcohol intoxication. However, IV fluids are effective when a person is clinically dehydrated, particularly when they can’t keep down oral fluids or remain dehydrated despite drinking fluids. Other medications carried by our team can also help minimise discomfort from other hangover symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and headache.  

  Paramedic Associates does not condone or support excessive alcohol consumption. However, if a person becomes clinically dehydrated and needs IV rehydration and other medication (for example, for pain and nausea) after consuming too much alcohol, we provide care in the same way as we would for someone with dehydration from other causes, such as gastroenteritis. When treating dehydration following excessive alcohol use, we routinely offer information on safe alcohol use and advice for ongoing self-care. 

When a person is clinically dehydrated, 0.9% sodium chloride is administered through a small intravenous cannula (IV drip) that is placed into a vein. Sodium chloride replaces both the fluid and sodium (salt) lost from sweating, excessive urination, vomiting, or diarrhoea. When indicated, our team can also offer a range of other medications, such as ondansetron for nausea and vomiting, IV paracetamol for pain (e.g., headache), and loperamide (Imodium) for diarrhoea. 

No. While IV rehydration and other medications (for example, for nausea and pain) will help to replace lost fluid and electrolytes and reduce the severity and duration of your symptoms, it is not an instant ‘cure’.