Are intravenous (IV) vitamin infusions safe and effective?

Written by Meredith Worthington, Ph.D. — Medically reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Updated October 23, 2023 ⓘ

Woman holding her phone while getting an iv vitamin infusion

Answer:

Intravenous (IV) vitamin infusions are touted by celebrities and promoted by wellness clinics for improving wellbeing, boosting immunity, increasing energy, and treating various conditions including colds, hangovers, migraines, and others (Bonate, J Clin Pharmacol 2023). Unfortunately, there is no good clinical evidence that IV vitamin infusions provide health benefits except in specific therapeutic situations — such as treating vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Furthermore, they can be unsafe and, in some cases, have been linked with death.

Sign in as a member to learn what is typically included in IV vitamin infusions (such as the "Myers' Cocktail" and versions of it sold by the company HydraMed), side effects that have been reported with these therapies, and how to reduce the risk of adverse effects if you choose to get an IV vitamin infusion.

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