Infusion therapy has become a cornerstone of modern medicine, offering precise and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions. But what exactly is infusion therapy, who benefits from it, and what should you expect when receiving this type of care?
We’re going to answer all your questions about infusion therapy—from the basics to the latest advances. Recent advancements in infusion therapy over recent years have led to new standards for infusible pharmaceuticals, particularly with the introduction of pre-filled, ready-to-use, dose-specific products.
What Is Infusion Therapy?
Infusion therapy is a method of administering medication, fluids, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a needle or catheter. This allows patients to receive vital treatment when oral medications are ineffective, unavailable, or not well tolerated.
Instead of swallowing pills, patients receiving infusion therapy are given their medication through a needle intravenously (IV), subcutaneously (under the skin), or even into the membranes surrounding the spinal cord—depending on their needs and doctor’s recommendations.
Benefits of Infusion Therapy
Why choose infusion therapy over other delivery methods? Here are some key benefits:
Infusion therapy interacts with the body to provide effective treatment by ensuring that medications are delivered directly into the bloodstream, allowing for faster and more efficient absorption.
✅ Rapid Absorption & Effect
Medications administered through infusion enter the bloodstream directly, delivering quick results and making it ideal for situations where time is of the essence—such as infections, severe pain, or immune conditions.
Medications are often prepared in advance to ensure rapid absorption and effect.
✅ Higher Effectiveness
Certain treatments—like chemotherapy, biologics, and advanced antibiotics—are only effective when administered intravenously. Infusion therapy ensures the right dose of the drug reaches your system efficiently.
✅ Alternative for Patients Who Can’t Take Oral Medications
If you struggle with swallowing pills, have digestive disorders, or need medication that isn’t available orally, infusion therapy provides a reliable alternative form of treatment.
✅ Controlled Dosing and Monitoring
Infusion centers are staffed by trained nurses and doctors who can closely monitor infusion drugs, adjust doses, and watch for allergic reactions or side effects.
Advancements in clinical administration have significantly improved controlled dosing and monitoring, allowing for better patient outcomes and more flexible treatment settings.
Common Types of Infusion Therapy
There are several different forms of infusion therapy, each suited to specific medical needs:
For example, chemotherapy and the use of insulin pumps are common types of infusion therapy.
1. Intravenous (IV) Infusion
Most common type
Medication is delivered directly into a vein. The condition of the veins is crucial for successful IV infusion, as small veins can pose challenges for needle insertion. Repeated infusions can lead to scarring and damage to the veins.
Used for antibiotics, pain management, fluids, and more
2. Subcutaneous Infusion
Medication is injected just beneath the skin
Used for some hormone therapies and immunoglobulin treatments
Subcutaneous infusions can also be administered in alternate settings like clinics or patients’ homes.
3. Epidural and Spinal Infusions
Medication is delivered into the space around the spinal cord
Common in pain management or anesthesia for surgery
Epidural and spinal infusions are also used in treating certain cancers.
4. Intra-arterial Infusion
Medication is injected directly into an artery
Less common, used in certain specialized treatments
This method requires frequent monitoring to ensure proper administration and effectiveness.
Infusion Center Overview
An infusion center is a specialized medical facility dedicated to administering infusion therapy to patients. These centers are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by a team of healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, all trained to deliver safe and effective infusion therapy.
Patients receiving infusion therapy at an infusion center like PointHealth (PointInfusion) can expect a high standard of care in a comfortable and supportive environment. The centers are typically located in an outpatient setting, such as a clinic or hospital, making it convenient for patients to access the treatment they need without the need for an extended hospital stay.
PointInfusion centers offer a wide range of services, including pain management, stem cell therapy, and ketamine administration. The goal is to provide patients with a safe and effective way to receive their treatments while minimizing the risk of complications. Advanced technology and equipment are used to monitor patients during their therapy, ensuring they receive the best possible care.
Personalized care is a hallmark of the PointHealth infusion centers. Our staff is trained to administer infusion therapy and manage any potential side effects, providing patients with the attention and support they need throughout their treatment. Infusion centers play a critical role in providing access to ongoing treatment for chronic conditions, helping patients manage their health effectively.
What Conditions Are Treated with Infusion Therapy?
Infusion therapy is used in both outpatient and hospital settings for a wide range of health conditions, including:
Chronic pain and joint pain
Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
Infections requiring high-dose IV antibiotics
Cancer (chemotherapy infusions)
Neurological conditions
Immune deficiencies
Dehydration and nutritional support
If your doctor recommends infusion therapy, you can count on the care at a PointInfusion center or with the at-home PointInfusion Concierge services.
Administration and Monitoring
Infusion therapy is typically administered by a healthcare provider, such as a doctor or nurse, who has received specialized training in this field. The process begins with the insertion of a needle or catheter into a vein, which is then connected to an IV bag or pump containing the medication. This allows the medication to be administered intravenously, entering the bloodstream directly for rapid and effective treatment.
Patients receiving infusion therapy are closely monitored by healthcare providers to ensure their safety and comfort. This monitoring includes checking vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, and observing for any signs of an allergic reaction or other complications. Specialized equipment, like cardiac monitors, may also be used to provide continuous monitoring during the infusion.
The duration of infusion therapy can vary widely depending on the type of medication being administered and the individual needs of the patient. Some treatments may take several hours, while others may be administered over several days or weeks. After the infusion is complete, patients may need to remain in the infusion center for a period of time to allow healthcare providers to monitor them for any potential side effects.
The administration and monitoring of infusion therapy require a heightened emphasis on patient safety and comfort. By closely monitoring patients and using advanced technology, healthcare providers can minimize the risk of complications and ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients.
What to Expect During Infusion Therapy
Preparation: Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure, review your medical history, and ensure your medication is properly prepared.
Administration: The medication is administered intravenously through a needle or catheter, which may remain in place for several hours.
Monitoring: Nurses will check your vital signs, monitor for allergic reactions or side effects, and ensure you’re comfortable.
Aftercare: Once the infusion is complete, you may be monitored for a short time before being allowed to leave. You’ll get instructions for follow-up or future treatments.
Most infusions last from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the type and dosage of medication.
Patient Experience and Support
Patients receiving infusion therapy can expect comprehensive support and care from a dedicated team of healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. The patient experience is a critical component of infusion therapy, and healthcare providers work diligently to ensure that patients are comfortable and well-informed throughout the process.
To manage any pain or discomfort associated with infusion therapy, such as joint pain or skin irritation, patients may be given medication. Additionally, healthcare providers may employ alternative methods, such as distraction techniques or relaxation strategies, to help patients manage any anxiety or stress related to their treatment.
Patients are encouraged to ask questions and express any concerns they may have, ensuring they are fully informed and supported throughout their therapy. Infusion therapy can be complex and intimidating, but healthcare providers strive to make the process as comfortable and manageable as possible.
A clear schedule or plan for infusion therapy is often provided to help patients prepare and plan for their treatment. Healthcare providers also offer information and resources to help patients manage any side effects or complications that may arise.
The goal of patient support is to empower patients to take an active role in their care and to ensure they achieve the best possible outcomes from their infusion therapy. By providing comprehensive support and care, healthcare providers help patients feel more confident and comfortable throughout the infusion therapy process, leading to better overall results.
Is Infusion Therapy Safe?
Infusion therapy, which involves the administration of medication through a needle, is generally very safe when administered by trained professionals in a controlled setting. Minor side effects, like mild discomfort at the needle site or temporary fatigue, are common. Serious complications, such as allergic reactions or infection, are rare and closely monitored.
Your doctor will discuss any risks based on your medical history and condition.
Why Choose PointHealth for Infusion Therapy?
At PointHealth, we provide advanced infusion therapy services in a comfortable, modern setting. Our dedicated medical team uses the latest strategies and protocols to deliver personalized care—whether you need treatment for pain, infection, autoimmune conditions, or other disorders. Our advanced clinical administration practices ensure that you receive top-notch care in flexible environments like outpatient clinics and home care, aiming to contain costs and improve patient outcomes.
We work with your physician to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs, schedule, and health goals.
Ready to Learn More or Schedule Your Infusion?
If you have questions about infusion therapy, the benefits, or whether it’s right for your condition, we’re here to help.
👉 Call PointHealth at (855) 263-1487 or visit pointhealthclinic.com to schedule your consultation or referral.
Discover a more effective, reliable way to receive the care you need—so you can get back to living your healthiest life. Recent advancements in infusion therapy at PointHealth over recent years have led to new standards for infusible pharmaceuticals, enhancing the precision and efficacy of medication delivery.
