Intravenous

Intravenous means occurring within or by way of a vein. Medicines or fluids may be given by inserting an intravenous (IV) needle into a vein, usually in the back of the hand or on the forearm.

When the IV needle is in place, medicines or fluids can go quickly into the bloodstream and into the rest of the body.

Current as of: August 14, 2016

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & A. Evan Eyler, MD, MPH - Family Medicine, Psychiatry