IV is shorthand for intravenous. IV Fluids means intravenous fluids and IV Antibiotics means intravenous antibiotics. IV Fluids are usually used to treat dehydration, and consist of a large amount of water mixed with needed electrolytes and vitamins. IV Antibiotics work much the same way, with the addition of antibiotics added in to help fight an infection. In most cases, IV Antibiotics will also have fluids to hydrate you. You may be surprised to learn that a good portion of the population is chronically dehydrated. Hydrating your body and introducing antibiotics are a powerful force to help clear up a lingering infection. The antibiotics are introduced into your bloodstream via a small tube called an IV. It is inserted into a vein and the bag of fluid, containing the antibiotics, slowly drips down the tube and into your system.