A supportive, evidence-informed approach for prevention, recovery, and cancer care
Here’s What to Expect at Longev Clinic
If you’ve been exploring complementary cancer care or ways to optimize your health, you might have come across high-dose intravenous vitamin C (IVC) therapy. At Longev Clinic, we’ want to offer this guide for IVC therapy to help you understand how effective it can be. We are proud to offer this powerful, evidence-informed treatment in a safe and supportive setting. Whether you’re curious about prevention, navigating survivorship, or currently undergoing cancer treatment, we will walk you through everything you need to know before your first IV.
Who Might Benefit from High-Dose IVC?
High-dose IVC may be supportive in a range of health journeys. At Longev Clinic, we typically see patients who fall into one of these three categories:
1. Strong Family History & Prevention
If you have a strong family history of cancer and want to take a proactive approach to your health, high-dose IVC may help reduce oxidative stress, support immune function, and potentially eliminate pre-existing cancer or pre-cancerous cells before they develop into disease.
2. Survivorship, Recovery, & Preventing Recurrence
Many patients seek IVC to support recovery following conventional cancer treatment. High-dose IVC may help replenish nutrients, improve energy, and promote healing. It may also support post-surgical recovery, especially for those who have undergone tumour removal. Long-term, it may assist in reducing the risk of recurrence.
3. Active Cancer Support
When used alongside standard treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, high-dose IVC may enhance treatment response, reduce side effects, and support overall quality of life. This is always done under careful medical supervision.
Your First Step: The IV Consultation
Before starting IV therapy, all patients must complete an initial IV consultation with a licensed naturopathic doctor (ND) at Longev Clinic. During this visit:
- We review your full medical history
- Discuss your goals and concerns
- Review any current or past cancer treatments
- Assess if IVC is appropriate for you
- Determine your eligibility for high-dose therapy
Please bring any recent blood work, imaging reports, or relevant medical records with you to this appointment, or email them to the clinic in advance.
Bloodwork Requirements
For your safety, we require specific blood tests before starting high-dose IVC. These include:
- G6PD (Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase): Low levels may increase the risk of hemolysis with high-dose vitamin C
- Renal function panel: Ensures your kidneys are functioning well enough to process high-dose vitamin C
- Liver enzyme panel: Assesses liver health and metabolic capacity (AST, ALT, ALP, GGT)
- Electrolyte panel: To monitor shifts in minerals like potassium
- Complete blood count (CBC): Gives insight into immune status and overall health
If recent lab results are available, we may be able to use them. Otherwise, we can provide a lab requisition for your convenience.
What to Expect During an IVC Treatment
Once you’re cleared to start, you’ll be booked into one of our IV therapy shifts. Here’s what you can expect:
- Arrival & Check-In: A team member will greet you and ensure you’re comfortable
- Pre-IV Vitals: We check your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature
- IV Placement: An ND will insert the IV and begin the vitamin C infusion
- Monitoring: You’ll be observed throughout the treatment to ensure safety and comfort
- Duration: High-dose IVC infusions can take 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the dose
You’re welcome to bring a book, podcast, or blanket — many patients find it a relaxing experience.
How to Prepare for Your First IV
To help your body tolerate and absorb the treatment, we recommend:
- Eating a light meal 1–2 hours beforehand
- Drinking plenty of water before and after the IV
- Wearing loose, comfortable clothing, especially with easy arm access
- Bringing entertainment (book, headphones, etc.) to pass the time
- Bringing snacks to enjoy during your visit
- Eating a full meal after your treatment, to help your body recover and stabilize
How Often Will I Need Treatment?
Treatment frequency is personalized to your needs. Most patients begin with 1-2 sessions per week over 8–12 weeks, with adjustments made based on how you respond and your overall goals.
Is It Covered by Insurance?
While IV nutrients and materials cost may not be covered by all extended health plans, the initial consultation and IV visits with a licensed ND are often reimbursable. Check with your provider to confirm coverage.
Have Questions or Ready to Get Started?
We’re here to support you every step of the way. Book your initial IV consultation at Longev Clinic today and discover whether high-dose IVC could be a valuable part of your health journey.
Not quite ready to commit?
We also offer complimentary discovery calls so you can ask questions, learn more about the process, and find out if this therapy is right for you — no pressure, just support.
