2002 · John Myers, MD; modified formula described by A.R. Gaby
Myers' cocktail
Contents. Magnesium, calcium, B vitamins and vitamin C
Gaby built on the work of the late John Myers and described a modified vitamin-and-mineral infusion. He reported it effective for acute asthma, migraine, fatigue, fibromyalgia, muscle spasm, sinus and respiratory infections and other conditions, from published research and his own clinical experience.[1][2][3]
Evidence. One randomized, double-blind pilot: 34 adults with fibromyalgia had weekly infusions for 8 weeks against lactated Ringer's solution. Both groups improved from baseline; no outcome differed significantly between groups.
Risks and limits. In September 2026 Centric Compounding of Houston recalled Myer's Cocktail, glutathione and Tri-Immune Boost vials made with a glutathione ingredient high in endotoxin, after 9 reports of fever, chills, chest pain, nausea or headache.
1976 · E. Cameron and L. Pauling (cancer claims); M. Levine's NIH group (blood levels)
High-dose vitamin C
Contents. Ascorbic acid, a mean 28 g per infusion in a 2006-2008 survey
In 2006, 172 surveyed practitioners gave IV vitamin C to 11,233 patients, at a mean 28 g every 4 days and 22 treatments per patient. Manufacturers sold 750,000 vials in 2006 and 855,000 in 2008. Common reasons were infection, cancer and fatigue.[1][2][3]
Evidence. Two Mayo Clinic trials of 10 g a day by mouth showed no benefit in advanced cancer. A 2014 review of IV vitamin C in cancer found 2 randomized trials among 37 studies and called the evidence preliminary. In sepsis, the LOVIT trial found more death or organ dysfunction with IV vitamin C than placebo.
Risks and limits. Oxalate kidney damage and kidney stones; severe hemolysis in G6PD deficiency; false glucose meter readings. The FDA label for Ascor caps the adult dose at 200 mg a day for up to 1 week.
2019 · R. Grant and colleagues (first human IV study)
NAD+ drip
Contents. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide
NAD+ is a cofactor for enzymes in DNA repair and metabolism, and its level falls with age. Wellness clinics sell IV NAD+ as an anti-aging treatment.[1][2][3]
Evidence. A 2026 systematic review of 113 studies found no outcome trials of IV or intramuscular NAD+ for anti-aging or wellness. Oral precursors raised NAD+ in blood, with mostly null effects on health outcomes.
Risks and limits. In a retrospective review at a commercial clinic (authors employed by the clinic), 500 mg NAD+ IV caused moderate to severe stomach symptoms, faster heart rate and chest pressure. Infusions averaged 97 minutes, against 37 minutes for nicotinamide riboside.
2016 · Zubair et al. (only placebo-controlled IV trial)
Glutathione drip
Contents. Glutathione, a tripeptide antioxidant; no FDA-approved product in the US
Glutathione is marketed for skin lightening. The one placebo-controlled IV trial gave 1,200 mg twice a week for 6 weeks against saline in Pakistani women; its results did not favor IV glutathione, and reviewers found its design flawed.[1][2][3]
Evidence. Oral glutathione 500 mg a day reduced melanin index more than placebo at 2 of 6 sites in 60 students. A 2025 systematic review rated IV glutathione contraindicated for lack of efficacy and side effects.
Risks and limits. Endotoxin reactions from products made with dietary supplement grade glutathione (FDA alerts 2019 and 2026). The Philippines FDA warned in 2011 of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, thyroid and kidney effects. A 2025 US case of Stevens-Johnson syndrome followed an infusion of glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin D.
1832 · Thomas Latta (saline for cholera)
Hydration drip
Contents. Saline or lactated Ringer's solution
Saline was first given by vein to treat cholera in 1832. In a trial, 8 men who lost 1.7 L of fluid in heat were rehydrated with 0.45% saline over 20 minutes, by vein or by mouth.[1][2][3]
Evidence. IV fluid restored plasma volume faster, but heart rate, body temperature and heat tolerance (73 versus 71 minutes) did not differ from drinking. The World Anti-Doping Agency banned voluntary IV rehydration in healthy athletes.
Risks and limits. IV fluid bypasses thirst and antidiuretic hormone signals from the mouth and throat. Peripheral IV catheters fail in 35% to 50% of hospital uses.
2018 · Cochrane review, Wang et al.
B vitamin and B12 add-ons
Contents. Thiamine, B complex and vitamin B12
B vitamins are part of the Myers' cocktail and are sold as drip add-ons.[1][2][3]
Evidence. For B12 deficiency, 1000 mcg a day by mouth gave blood levels similar to intramuscular injection in 2 trials (low-quality evidence).
Risks and limits. In 989 patients given 100 mg IV thiamine, 12 reactions (1.1%) occurred: 11 local irritation and 1 generalized itch.
2019 · Miller et al. (systematic review)
Magnesium
Contents. Magnesium sulfate
Magnesium is a main ingredient of the Myers' cocktail. In emergency departments it is given by vein for acute headache.[1][2]
Evidence. Seven randomized trials with 545 patients: pain improved at 60 to 120 minutes, not earlier.
Risks and limits. Results for 50% pain relief conflicted across 3 studies, and the reviewers drew no firm conclusion.