Intravenous vitamin therapy delivers micronutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing gastrointestinal absorption. While the wellness industry markets IV drips as cure-alls, the clinical reality is more nuanced. Some formulations have reasonable evidence for specific indications; others rely primarily on patient-reported outcomes. In this guide, I compare the four most requested infusions at our clinic and explain who is most likely to benefit.[6]
Comparison Table
| Infusion | Key Ingredients | Duration | Best For | Evidence Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Myers' Cocktail | Magnesium, calcium, B-complex, vitamin C | 30–45 min | Fatigue, migraines, fibromyalgia | Moderate (open-label trials) |
| Glutathione | Reduced glutathione (GSH) | 20–30 min | Oxidative stress, liver support, skin health | Limited (short-term antioxidant data) |
| NAD+ | Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide | 2–4 hours | Cellular repair, cognitive function, energy | Emerging (preclinical + early human trials) |
| Immune Boost | High-dose vitamin C, zinc, B12, selenium | 45–60 min | Immune support, post-illness recovery | Moderate (vitamin C fatigue reduction) |
Myers' Cocktail
Named after Dr John Myers who pioneered IV micronutrient therapy in the 1960s, this is the most widely administered formulation. It typically contains magnesium chloride (2–4 g), calcium gluconate, B-complex vitamins, and vitamin C (2–5 g). Open-label studies report improvements in fatigue, migraine frequency, and fibromyalgia symptoms, though double-blind RCT data remain limited.[2]
Glutathione
Glutathione is the body's most abundant intracellular antioxidant. IV administration bypasses the poor oral bioavailability of GSH supplements. Short-term studies demonstrate reduced markers of oxidative stress, and it is used clinically as an adjunct in hepatotoxicity. However, long-term wellness benefits remain unproven in healthy individuals.[4]
NAD+
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide is a coenzyme essential for mitochondrial energy production. Preclinical research shows NAD+ declines with age and that boosting levels may support cellular repair mechanisms. Human trials are in early stages, with promising signals for cognitive function and metabolic health. Sessions are longer (2–4 hours) and more expensive than other infusions.[5] Read our full NAD+ evidence review →
Immune Boost
High-dose IV vitamin C (up to 25 g) combined with zinc, selenium, and B12 is marketed for immune support. A randomised controlled trial found that IV vitamin C significantly reduced fatigue in office workers compared to placebo.[3] For post-illness recovery, the rapid rehydration and micronutrient delivery may accelerate return to baseline — though this is distinct from preventing illness in healthy individuals.
Safety note
IV vitamin therapy should be administered by trained clinicians in a clinical setting. Potential adverse effects include raised blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and local phlebitis. All infusions at Victoria Medical are supervised by a doctor or nurse prescriber.[6]
From Our Practice
"I always recommend blood testing before IV therapy. If a patient has a confirmed deficiency — B12, vitamin D, iron — targeted replacement is evidence-based medicine. For general wellness infusions, I set realistic expectations: hydration and micronutrient delivery can support recovery, but they are not a substitute for a balanced diet and regular health screening."
— Dr George Xynopoulos, Consultant Physician
Frequently Asked Questions
Which drip is best for energy?
If fatigue is your primary concern, I recommend blood testing first. If B12 or iron deficiency is confirmed, targeted replacement is most effective. For general fatigue without deficiency, the Myers' Cocktail has the most patient-reported benefit.
How often should I have IV vitamin therapy?
This depends on the indication. For confirmed deficiencies, treatment follows clinical guidelines. For wellness infusions, most patients attend monthly or as needed — there is no evidence supporting a fixed schedule for healthy individuals.
Are IV drips safe?
When administered by trained clinicians in a clinical setting, IV vitamin therapy has a good safety profile. Risks include local bruising, phlebitis, and rare allergic reactions. We monitor all patients throughout their infusion.
Can I combine different drips?
Some formulations can be combined or customised. I discuss your goals and any blood test results before recommending a protocol. Certain combinations (e.g., high-dose vitamin C with glutathione) are commonly paired.
Do I need a blood test first?
I strongly recommend baseline blood work. This identifies genuine deficiencies that benefit from targeted treatment and ensures IV therapy is safe for you — particularly checking kidney function and electrolytes.
How quickly will I feel a difference?
Many patients report improved energy and hydration within hours of a Myers' Cocktail or Immune Boost. NAD+ effects may be more gradual, developing over days to weeks with repeated sessions.
Related Guides
What Is IV Vitamin Therapy?
Benefits, safety, and what to expect
NAD+ IV Therapy Evidence
What the research says
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Symptoms, testing, and injections
IV Vitamin Drips Service
Book your infusion
References
- [1] Cathers M. I.V. vitamin therapy: miracle or malarkey? Pharmacy Today. 2022;28(10):28–29. View source
- [2] Gaby AR. Intravenous nutrient therapy: the 'Myers' Cocktail'. Altern Med Rev. 2002;7(5):389–403. View source
- [3] Suh SY, Bae WK, Ahn HY, et al. Intravenous vitamin C administration reduces fatigue in office workers: a double-blind randomised controlled trial. Nutr J. 2012;11:7. View source
- [4] Pizzorno J. Glutathione! Integr Med (Encinitas). 2014;13(1):8–12. View source
- [5] Rajman L, Chwalek K, Sinclair DA. Therapeutic potential of NAD-boosting molecules. Cell Metab. 2018;27(3):529–547. View source
- [6] Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin. Intravenous micronutrient therapy. DTB. 2023;61(10):151–154. View source
