OH medical regulators issue statement on IV hydration clinics
Ohio regulators have issued warnings to the state's growing number of retail IV hydration clinics, emphasizing that these establishments are engaging in medical practices that require proper licensing and adherence to established healthcare standards. The State Medical Board, along with the Ohio Boards of Pharmacy and Nursing, released a joint statement highlighting concerns over clinics administering intravenous infusions—comprising saline, vitamins, prescription drugs, and amino acids—without appropriate medical oversight. The regulators noted that such services, often marketed for treating conditions like dehydration and migraines or for enhancing athletic recovery, must be conducted by licensed professionals in compliance with Ohio laws. Specific issues cited include the compounding of IV "cocktails" by unlicensed personnel and the operation of clinics without the necessary terminal distributor licenses. Violations of these regulations could lead to fines, license suspensions, or even criminal charges.