IV drips and nutrient injections

Fluids and vitamins given intravenously — no downtime, but the evidence for the promised benefits is limited.

Treatment time
20–60 min
Downtime
0 days
Sessions
1–10 sessions

How it works

Saline is mixed with ingredients such as B and C vitamins, glutathione or amino acids and infused over 20 to 60 minutes. Blood levels do rise faster than with oral intake, but whether that produces effects like reduced fatigue or lighter skin in a healthy person is not well established. Correcting a documented deficiency and taking a drip for prevention or appearance are two different propositions.

Used for

  • Dehydration or a deficiency confirmed at consultation
  • Being unable to take things by mouth
  • Wanting something with no recovery time

Cautions

  • An intravenous infusion is a medical procedure — allergy, infection and fluid overload are real risks
  • Tell the clinician about kidney or heart disease; the fluid load itself can be dangerous
  • Claims like "whitening" or "anti-ageing" rest on different evidence for different products. Ask for the ingredient name and its approved use
  • Intravenous glutathione for skin lightening has no established efficacy or safety profile

Aftercare

  • Press the puncture site for at least five minutes and avoid hard exercise that day
  • Report dizziness, rash or difficulty breathing immediately
  • If repeat sessions are recommended, ask what they are based on

General information only; it does not replace medical diagnosis or advice.