What an electrolyte drink mix is
It's a powder you stir into water and drink. Most contain electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, plus a sugar like glucose, and some add vitamins. You buy it over the counter and take it on your own.
Follow the directions on the package. If you have a health condition or take medicines, ask your doctor before using one.
What an IV drip is
A drip is fluid given straight into a vein, usually in your arm or hand, by a nurse or another trained professional. The needle only places a tiny, flexible tube in the vein, then comes out.
Most of our drips start with a liter of normal saline, which is sterile salt water (0.9% sodium chloride). Some add vitamins, minerals or medicines.
How they differ
- How it gets in: a drink mix goes through your stomach and gut. A drip goes into a vein.
- Who gives it: you mix and drink a drink mix yourself. A nurse or paramedic gives a drip.
- What's in it: a drink mix has a set recipe. A drip can be changed with add-ins.
- What it takes: a drink mix needs a glass of water. A drip needs a short medical form, a check of your vitals and a visit of about 45 to 60 minutes.
- Cost: a drink mix costs less. Our Hydration drip, 1 liter of normal saline, is $140.
Side effects to know about
FDA labels for IV saline list reactions such as redness, burning or tenderness where the IV goes in, infection at that spot, an irritated vein or a clot, and allergic reactions like a rash, hives, itching or chills. Tell your nurse right away if you notice any of these.
The same labels call for extra care with heart failure, kidney or liver disease and high blood pressure, so tell your nurse if any of those apply to you. With a drink mix, read the package, and ask your doctor if you are unsure.
Which one is for you?
That depends on you, and it's a question for your own doctor, not a website. If you think someone is severely dehydrated, that's an emergency: call 911.
To book a Hydration drip, call or text (385) 301-6279, every day from 9 AM to 8 PM.
