special subjects
Intravenous Vitamin Therapy (Myers' Cocktail)
What is intravenous vitamin therapy?
Intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy (also known as intravenous micronutrient therapy and hydration therapy) is a way to give high concentrations of vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream, allowing rapid absorption of higher doses of the vitamins and minerals than if the person got them through food or supplements. These liquids are delivered through a small tube inserted into a vein. The infusions typically take 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the volume of the cocktail and the size of the person's veins. IV vitamin therapy is touted by many celebrities and is available at many IV bars, drip bars, and IV lounges. The Myers' cocktail is a popular formula among complementary and alternative medicine providers for IV vitamin therapy. The Myers' formula consists of high doses of B vitamins, vitamin C, and minerals (magnesium and calcium) mixed with sterile water. Dr. John Myers developed and administered the first IV vitamin treatments in Baltimore in the 1970s. Any vitamin or mineral can be infused intravenously, and some doctors who administer the infusion have changed the amounts of the vitamins in the Myers' cocktail (this is called the modified Myers' cocktail). Some doctors have also individualized doses for frail, older people and children. (See also Overview of Dietary Supplements .) 