IV Vitamin Drips Promise Quick Health Boosts—but Do They Deliver?
Private clinics and wellness centres are offering a growing trend: intravenous vitamin drips. Marketed as a quick fix for fatigue, immunity, and skin health, these 'cocktails' promise near-total nutrient absorption by bypassing the digestive system. Yet medical experts warn that the benefits may not match the hype—or the cost.
The treatments, often called 'vitamin cocktails', contain blends of B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, glutathione, and amino acids. Some are tailored for specific goals, such as 'stress relief' or an 'energy boost'. A single session lasts 30 to 60 minutes, with patients reclining in a relaxed setting while fluids are infused.
Many report feeling an energy surge within an hour. Clinics attribute this to fluid infusion, partial nutrient replenishment, and psychological effects. However, the procedure is not without risks. Possible complications include allergic reactions, vein inflammation, dosing errors, or infections if sterility is compromised.
Prices range from 13,000 to 105,000 tenge per drip, making multi-session courses a costly investment. Despite the popularity, major health authorities like the WHO, FDA, and EMA do not recognise systematic IV vitamin use for healthy adults. Evidence-based medicine restricts its recommendation to specific cases, such as confirmed deficiencies, malabsorption, severe dehydration, or anaemia.
Experts urge caution, particularly for those with chronic kidney, heart, or metabolic conditions. While the treatments are heavily promoted, their benefits remain unproven for most people.
IV vitamin therapy continues to attract those seeking quick health boosts, but the lack of official endorsements raises questions. For now, the procedure remains a niche wellness service rather than a medically validated solution. Patients are advised to consult healthcare professionals before considering it.
