Consumers are being warned to be wary amid a rise in unproven claims about intravenous wellness treatments.

A number of clinics are offering the infusions claiming they deliver benefits such as clearer thinking or boosted immunity.

Altona GP and former president of the Australian Medical Association, Dr Mukesh Haikerwal, says IV infusions can have “catastrophic outcomes”.

“The key thing is when we work in the health sector and medicine the first rule is do no harm,” he told Ross and Russel.

“Things like infusions, putting things into people’s veins may be quick and easy but they have many problems about infections and things when they are given, and you’re actually putting things that might cause a major reaction into the veins which can make a pretty catastrophic outcome.”

Dr Haikerwal is calling for greater oversight over the industry to make sure operators aren’t “preying on people’s vulnerabilities”.

Press PLAY below to hear Dr Haikerwal’s IV wellness treatment warning

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