Intravenous (IV) fluid therapy isn’t a cure-all for hangovers. It may help relieve certain symptoms, like those linked to dehydration, but it doesn’t address all possible underlying factors that can contribute to a hangover.
IV fluid therapy for hangovers isn’t part of the standard medical protocol for hangover treatment. Experts consider it a “boutique” therapy, or a high end, elective treatment, typically given in spa-like settings or private clinics.
Researchers haven’t performed large-scale studies to support IV fluid therapy’s effectiveness as a hangover treatment.
Despite the common practice of giving IV fluids in emergency rooms for acute alcohol intoxication, current research suggests it might not be as beneficial as once thought.
A
Experts noted similar findings in a
The theory behind giving IV therapy for hangovers comes from fluid therapy’s ability to reduce dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and harmful metabolite buildup.
Simply put, injecting fluids directly into your veins gives your body quick access to water and essential nutrients lost from urination (or vomiting) while drinking alcohol.
Adding fluids can also help dilute and “flush out” the harmful components left behind from alcohol breakdown, supporting liver and kidney function.
Many IV fluid types exist, all with specific medical purposes. Not all IV fluids are appropriate to receive for a hangover. Always receive IV therapy from a licensed medical professional.
Basic IV fluid drips for hangovers are those doctors give to relieve dehydration. They contain sterile water and at least one electrolyte.
The
A typical hangover IV infusion usually has a 0.9% sodium chloride base, but you can often customize your therapy with other additives like vitamins or antioxidants at an additional cost.
These additives may not improve the effectiveness of a hangover remedy, but they can provide vital nutrients that support your body’s overall health.
You can also request additional anti-nausea medications in your IV drip to help with gastrointestinal symptoms.
By addressing the symptoms of dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and metabolite buildup, IV fluid therapy for hangovers may improve symptoms such as:
- headache
- thirst
- dry mouth
- fatigue
- muscle cramps or weakness
- lightheadedness
- brain fog
- irritability
But you might still experience symptoms that fluid replacement can’t address, such as light and sound sensitivity, memory difficulties, sleep disturbances, or acid reflux.
IV therapy’s effectiveness for hangover symptoms can vary for each person.
Receiving IV fluids for hangover relief isn’t without risk. IV therapy involves positioning a catheter in one of your veins. IV injection site inflammation, pain, or irritation are possible.
Other risks include:
- Fluid overload: Infusing fluids too fast can overwhelm your kidneys’ filtration capacity and cause edema (body swelling).
- Electrolyte imbalance: Incorrect fluid preparation or infusing too many electrolytes could create electrolyte imbalances, like hypernatremia (too-high sodium levels).
- Allergic reaction: Solution additives may cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Infection: Improper sterile injection technique could lead to local or systemic infections.
- Co-occurring condition reactions: Receiving IV fluids too quickly can worsen some medical conditions, like pulmonary edema (lungs filling with fluid due to unmanaged high blood pressure).
Discuss receiving IV fluid for hangovers with your doctor beforehand. Discussions can help them consider your medical history, preferences, and safety when planning this therapy.
You don’t have to receive an IV to rehydrate well after drinking. Commercial products and home remedies may relieve some symptoms.
A
IV fluid therapy for hangovers is a growing trend, and while it may help improve certain hangover symptoms, it isn’t a cure-all.
Before receiving IV therapy, consult your doctor to ensure it’s the right decision based on your health and medical history.