IV Therapies for Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia

Curated By Dr. Leila Turner

In delving into the world of Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (FMS/CFS) and similar conditions, my goal is to bring together and distill key scientific findings on potential causes, aggravations, and effective therapies. This overview aims to provide a data-driven rationale for commonly recognized clinical therapies, specifically focusing on injection therapies. While the intricacies of safe administration are beyond the scope here, it is assumed that practitioners using this information have the necessary training in the safe administration of relevant substances.

It’s essential to acknowledge that non-injection therapies integral to FMS/CFS treatment, such as endocrine support, immune and infectious therapies, sleep hygiene, digestive support, and diet therapy, are assumed to be known and concurrently practiced. Additionally, any injectable nutrient mentioned should be incorporated into the oral repletion therapy for FMS/CFS patients, provided their gastrointestinal function allows.

Understanding the Disorders:

Numerous factors may contribute to or exacerbate FMS/CFS, making these conditions multifactorial and patient-specific. These factors include hippocampal dysfunction, neurotransmitter imbalance, autoimmune attacks, lifestyle deficits, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, methyl cycle defects, seasonal affective disorder, anemia, and more.

Given the multifaceted nature of these conditions, therapeutic approaches should encompass a broad spectrum, aligning with available scientific data and logical clinical reasoning. In this discussion, I aim to provide a scientific and clinical rationale for injection therapies that address the identified causal relationships in FMS/CFS.

Therapeutic Targets for Injection Therapies:

Injection therapies are well-suited to target common potential causes of FMS/CFS, such as neurotransmitter imbalance, autoimmunity, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, methyl cycle defects, anemia, dehydration, and related comorbidities.

Hydration:

Dehydration exacerbates CNS manifestations like “brain fog” in FMS/CFS and reduces the overall quality of life in affected individuals. While oral hydration remains a primary goal, adjusting IV formula osmolarity to isotonic or mildly hypotonic levels can enhance tolerance and treatment outcomes.

Vitamin C / Ascorbic Acid (ASC):

ASC infusion, well-known and studied in IV therapy, shows promise in alleviating FMS/CFS symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and immune deficits. Clinical experiences align with studies, demonstrating improvements in pain, fatigue, and oxidative/redox balance with moderate ASC doses.

Magnesium:

A staple in FMS/CFS therapies, injected magnesium contributes to reducing NMDA/Glutamate receptor activity, acetylcholine blockade, cardiac muscle regulation, increased cell ATP, and glutathione activity. Moreover, injected magnesium provides a relatively long therapeutic window, supporting sustained benefits.

Iron Status and Ferritin:

Studies suggest a possible association between FMS and decreased ferritin levels, emphasizing the role of iron as a cofactor in serotonin and dopamine production. While oral repletion is preferred, injectable iron may be necessary for those with prolonged low ferritin and additional comorbidities. (Venofer- Iron IVs are available at Living Wellness) 

Glutathione:

A pivotal IV additive, glutathione, known for its positive effects across various illnesses, proves beneficial in FMS/CFS. Increased oxidative stress and the association with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity underscore the importance of glutathione augmentation in these patients.

The Lipoic Acid-based Thiols: Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) and Lipoic Acid Mineral Complex (LAMC):

ALA, a thiol supporting glutathione levels, and LAMC, known for cell and mitochondrial repair, demonstrate positive outcomes in FMS/CFS. Careful consideration of dosing and potential reactions is advised due to recent changes in pharmacologic compounds. (available at LWMC via special order only) 

In conclusion, a comprehensive approach to FMS/CFS integrates various oral and parenteral therapies. Understanding the biochemistry and pharmacology of these agents, coupled with sound training, ensures their safe and effective use in the IV or IM setting.