Stem cell therapy reaches the body by one of two routes: an injection into a specific area, or an IV into the bloodstream. People ask which one is "better." The more useful question is which one fits the plan you are building.
This article explains how each route works at GIOSTAR, what the visit feels like, what changes between them, and what stays the same.
Stem cell injection and stem cell IV at a glance
| Injection | IV | |
|---|---|---|
| Where the cells go | Into one treatment area, or two or more in the same visit | Into the bloodstream |
| Where you sit | A private treatment room | A recliner in our IV lounge |
| Treatment day | 1 to 2 hours, home the same day | 1 to 2 hours, home the same day |
| Surgery or incision | None | None |
| Extra step | None | A small draw of your own blood, added to the cells shortly before the IV starts |
Both use the same cells at GIOSTAR: ethically sourced mesenchymal stem cells from screened donors. The cells are the same. The route is what differs.
How a stem cell injection works
An injection places the cells in the treatment area your plan targets. At GIOSTAR, a Single Site plan covers one treatment area. A Multi-Site plan covers two or more areas in the same visit.
You sit or lie in a private room, and your nurse practitioner gives the injection. Most people describe a needle stick and brief pressure. There is no surgery, no incision and no general anesthesia. Soreness or swelling at the treated area is common for a few days afterward.
Because the cells go where your plan points them, an injection plan begins with a conversation about where. Your nurse practitioner goes through your goals and history with you at your visit before choosing.
How a stem cell IV works
An IV delivers the cells into the bloodstream. At GIOSTAR, a Systemic IV plan is given in a recliner in our IV lounge, so you can settle in comfortably.
On IV plans, we add a small draw of your own blood to the cells shortly before your IV starts. Your nurse practitioner explains the step at your visit. Then the infusion runs while you rest, read or catch up on email. Treatment day takes 1 to 2 hours, and you go home the same day.
What stays the same with a stem cell injection or IV
The route changes the plan. It does not change how we look after you.
- The cells. Ethically sourced mesenchymal stem cells from screened donors, from tissue donated after healthy, full-term births, with the mother's consent. We use no embryos, and no harm comes to mother or baby.
- The paperwork. Each lot comes with a Certificate of Analysis and full traceability.
- The people. A licensed nurse practitioner gives every plan, and Dr. Ryan Peterson, our Medical Director, oversees care.
- No harvest. GIOSTAR uses donor cells, so there is no procedure to collect your own cells and no second site to look after.
- Aftercare. Written instructions before you leave, and our phone number for any question.
- Follow-up. A check-in at 2 weeks and every 3 months, with your plan adjusted alongside you.
How the stem cell therapy route gets chosen
Your nurse practitioner recommends a route at your in-person visit, after reviewing your goals, your health history, every medication and supplement you take, and any allergies. That review also confirms whether you are a candidate.
You do not need to arrive with a decision. Come with what you would like to keep doing, and the route follows from the plan. If another option suits you better, our team says so at your consultation.
What each stem cell therapy route means for the total
The route is one of three things that decide the total, along with the number of treatment areas and whether you choose a single treatment or a repeat dose. Your nurse practitioner gives you the full total at your free consultation, before you book. For more on how it adds up, read what decides the total for stem cell therapy.
Preparing for a stem cell injection or IV
Preparation is the same for injection and IV.
- Stop ibuprofen-type pain relievers 7 days before treatment day.
- Pause blood thinners only with your prescriber's approval.
- Skip alcohol for 48 hours and drink plenty of water.
- Eat a light meal before you arrive and wear loose clothing.
- Bring your medication list.
You can usually drive yourself home. For extra support after an injection, bring someone along.
What to expect after a stem cell injection or IV
The first days look alike on both routes. Soreness or swelling at the treated area for a few days is common after an injection. Some people feel tired, get a headache or feel flu-like for a day or two, and a low-grade fever, if it appears, fades within 48 hours. Return to light activity usually takes 1 to 2 days, and your aftercare instructions include avoiding ibuprofen-type pain relievers for 2 weeks.
Read more in common short-term side effects after stem cell therapy.
Questions to ask any provider about stem cell therapy routes
- Which route do you recommend for me, and why?
- Does the plan use my own cells or donor cells?
- How long will I be in the room?
- Who gives the injection or sets up the IV?
- What do I do the day before and the day of?
A provider who explains the route in plain terms has probably explained the rest of the plan the same way. For the full sequence of steps, see how stem cell therapy works.
Stem cell therapy at GIOSTAR in Henderson
GIOSTAR stands for Global Institute of Stem Cell Therapy and Research. Founded by Dr. Anand Srivastava, GIOSTAR International is part of a network across three countries, and our Henderson wellness center at 2482 W. Horizon Ridge Pkwy, Ste 100, is now open. Start with a free consultation at 702.703.5393, or learn more about stem cell therapy at GIOSTAR.
