Ohio State Medical Board, others issue regulatory statement on retail IV therapy clinics

The State Medical Board of Ohio, the Ohio Board of Pharmacy and the Ohio Board of Nursing have all issued a joint regulatory statement on retail IV therapy clinics according to a news release.

The aim of the statement is to "highlight critical patient safety concerns and the importance of regulatory compliance" according to the release.

According to the release, a retail IV clinic offers IV fluid "cocktails" that include a mixture of saline, vitamins, prescription drug and amino acids, claiming to treat conditions, such as migraines and dehydration, and enhance athletic recovery.

The Boards emphasize that such IV therapy is a medical practice that requires licensed professionals and compliance with Ohio laws and regulations to administer.

"The Board of Pharmacy has rules in place to ensure the safe preparation of IVs and other drug therapies administered by these clinics," said Pharmacy Board Executive Director Steven Schierholt.

Schierholt continues," Failure to comply with these standards can have serious adverse impacts on patient health."

The joint statement includes reminders about the following, according to the release:

• Using qualified staff to diagnose and treat patients
• Adhering to the scope of healthcare providers established by law
• Compliance with Ohio drug compounding rules
• Appropriate use of drug administration protocols
• Ensuring proper clinic oversight

"Nursing engaging in IV therapy clinics or elsewhere are obligated to act deliberately and responsibly, by fully understanding and complying with Ohio law and rules summarized in the joint regulatory statement, to ensure the safety and protection of patients in their care," said Board of Nursing Executive Director Marlene Anielski.

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