Quick Drip IV brings hydration therapy trend to South Side
In a neighborhood known to attract people drinking their way to a hangover, Bo Trasada offers to help replenish the fluids and vitamins these individuals might have lost. He opened Quick Drip IV, a trendy intravenous hydration salon on Pittsburgh’s South Side.
“An IV is the most efficient way to get fluids and vitamins,” said Trasada, a Beaver County native who lives on the North Side. “We need to focus on our wellness, especially during this pandemic and boost our immunity. When you take some of these medicines orally you don’t get the full benefit.”
Before you go to a place such as Quick Drip IV, you might want to check with your doctor first.
“It is important for us to ensure people are aware of the dangers of any type of non-traditional treatment, and also consult with their physician to ensure that IV therapy would not counteract with their current medical treatment,” said Pennsylvania Department of Health spokesman Nate Wardle in an email.
The Department of Health does not license these facilities, outside of what is done within a medical facility, said Wardle. He said if a licensed medical professional is performing the treatment, then IV therapy is regulated under that professional’s licensure, just like at a regular doctor’s office.
At Quick Drip IV, patients complete a medical intake for a good faith exam reviewed by a physician assistant and a consent form. There is a medical director on site, Trasada said. A licensed professional will insert a small tube into your vein. The tube is attached to a bag containing saline, as well as other additives in the treatment of your choosing, he said.
The formula will be pushed directly into your bloodstream. The process takes 30-45 minutes, Trasada said.
IV hydration therapy is treated with skepticism by many medical professionals. “There’s a reasonable alternative to IV fluids: drinking fluids,” wrote Robert H. Shmerling, M.D., in a Harvard Medical School publication. “If you’re able to drink fluids, that’s the best way to get them.”
Frequent IV therapy can lead to irritation of the veins, said Dr. Marc Itskowitz, director of the Center for Perioperative Medicine for Allegheny Health Network. Itskowitz generally recommends that people stay well hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. As for the procedure itself, he said that “receiving intravenous fluids is safe with a low risk of infection.”
Trasada recommends no more than four treatments a month. Quick Drip IV does not take insurance, but some companies reimburse for services, he said. Quick Drip IV does accept flexible spending accounts and health savings account payments.
Trasada designed the space to resemble someone’s living room. There are 65-inch televisions, lounge chairs and tables where people can charge iPhones, or iPads.
“I want people to feel comfortable here,” he said. “Like they are at home.”
Quick Drip IV offers a bag of fluids and electrolytes for $57, and goes up to a “Supreme” level of anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, antacid treatments and energy-boosting vitamins for $350. Customers can also schedule in-home treatments.
Dr. Richard J. Wadas, executive vice chair of community emergency medicine at UPMC, said via email that the risks of limited IV therapy in healthy people are very low. Like other doctors, he recommends drinking alcohol in moderation as a general rule.
“Oral rehydration for mild to moderate dehydration is preferable to having a medical procedure, if at all possible,” Wadas said. “Finally, the typical diet of people in the U.S. provides all of the vitamins and minerals your body needs.”
Wadas said IV therapy should be reserved for those situations in which a person is unable to take adequate food and fluid by mouth.”
Natalie Liberty, a New Kensington native, who was visiting from San Diego, Calif., has had a few treatments.
“I saw friends post about this on social media and so I tried it,” she said. “I don’t really like needles but you really only feel a pinch. I want to spread the word that it can really help you feel better.”
We are open from 10am-8pm all weekend. Stop by to get a quick drip and boost your energy. pic.twitter.com/T3ze0lymgm
— QuickDripIV (@QuickDripIV) August 1, 2020
“Quick Drip IV is very invested in the local community and economy,” Trasada said. “We currently feature artwork from a local artist, C.B. Perry, in the lounge and would be happy to showcase and sell pieces on behalf of other artists,. Additionally, we are developing partnerships and benefit programs with local apartment communities, gyms, small retailers and more.”
JoAnne Klimovich Harrop is a TribLive reporter covering the region's diverse culinary scene and unique homes. She writes features about interesting people. The Edward R. Murrow award-winning journalist began her career as a sports reporter. She has been with the Trib for 26 years and is the author of "A Daughter's Promise." She can be reached at jharrop@triblive.com.
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