Is IV Vitamin Therapy Safe and Effective for Migraines?
Intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy is a trending fad across the internet, used by celebrities and influences to increase energy, reduce fatigue, and even help with migraine symptoms. IV vitamin therapy can help with overall hydration, but is there any proof that it actually helps migraines? Read on to learn more.
Key takeaways:
IV vitamin therapy is a procedure that delivers vitamins, including vitamins B12, C, and D, directly into the vein.
Although IV vitamin therapy does show promise in treating fatigue in cancer patients, the studies on benefits for the general population are limited.
Not enough studies provide evidence to support the claim that IV vitamin therapy is effective at treating or alleviating the symptoms of migraines.
There are many ways to help decrease migraine symptoms. These methods include increasing omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, increasing physical activity, and improving mental health symptoms through CBT therapy.
What is IV vitamin therapy?
Intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy is a procedure that delivers a mixture of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a vein.
Common vitamins included in IV vitamin therapy are vitamin C, B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12), and vitamin D; the therapy can also contain minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, and zinc.
The rationale behind IV vitamin therapy is that by bypassing the digestive system and delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream, higher levels of nutrients can reach the cells and tissues throughout the body.
Does IV vitamin therapy work to cure migraines?
Scientists have considered IV vitamin therapy a potential treatment for migraines, but the evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited. While some individuals claim to experience relief from migraines after receiving IV vitamin therapy, more rigorous studies are needed to validate these reports.
Migraines are a neurological condition, and their causes and triggers can vary among individuals.
Specific vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and vitamin D, have been studied for their potential role in migraine prevention. However, evidence supporting their effectiveness is primarily based on oral supplementation, not IV therapy.
Another important note is that the FDA has not explicitly approved or regulated the use of IV vitamin therapy at this time.
What other conditions does IV therapy claim to treat?
Celebrities promote IV vitamin therapy as a way to treat many different health conditions and symptoms; however, there is very little scientific data to support the claims. Some issues and concerns that IV vitamin therapy is claimed to treat include:
Fatigue and decreased energy levels
Dehydration
Hangovers
Immune issues
Gastrointestinal diseases
Asthma
Diabetes
It’s important to note that if you have any of the symptoms listed above, seeing a medical professional to discuss appropriate treatment options is advised.
Cost of IV vitamin therapy
The cost of IV vitamin therapy can vary depending on several factors, including location, clinic provider experience, the composition of the IV treatment, and other additional services and add-ons.
On average, a single IV vitamin therapy treatment can range from $100 to $300. Some clinics also offer discounts and package deals for multiple treatments.
Remember that cost should not be the determining factor when considering where to receive IV vitamin therapy. Choose a reputable clinic with qualified healthcare professionals who prioritize safety and adhere to proper protocols.
Risks of IV vitamin therapy
Vitamin toxicity. One of the most significant risks of IV vitamin therapy is vitamin toxicity. When taking vitamins and minerals by mouth, the vitamins go through the digestive tract and are slowly digested through the stomach. This process allows the body to only absorb the necessary vitamins and minerals. When an IV vitamin drip is administered, it does not pass through the digestive system, so the body does not have time to break down and waste the vitamins and minerals it does not need.
Increased risk of kidney stones. Over absorption of vitamin C into the bloodstream can substantially increase the risk of oxalate formation. Oxalate causes kidney stones.
Electrolyte imbalances. When administered in high doses, specific vitamins, and minerals can disrupt the body's electrolyte balance. This is why it's crucial to have a healthcare professional monitor the therapy and adjust the dosage accordingly.
Infection. Whenever a needle is inserted into a vein, there is a risk of infection. Ensure that the clinic you choose uses proper sterilization techniques and only uses sterile equipment.
Allergic reactions. Some people may be allergic to the vitamins, minerals, or other substances used in IV therapy. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe, and the onset can be immediate or gradual.
Benefits of IV vitamin therapy
The number one benefit of IV vitamin therapy is increased hydration. This extra hydration into the bloodstream is said to be one of the leading causes of increased energy levels after IV vitamin therapy.
One medical doctor claimed that he treated numerous patients who experienced improvements in their overall health after IV vitamin therapy. Unfortunately, there was only one study done on his findings to date. One self-directed study noted the benefit of IV vitamin therapy for those suffering from digestive issues.
Several studies have found that high-dose IV vitamin C therapy is effective and beneficial for those on chemotherapy and radiation. This method, however, is a high-dose treatment prescribed and administered by an oncologist. It is known to reduce signs of fatigue, low-energy insomnia, and loss of appetite in cancer patients.
Although these studies do not specifically relate to the general population, this shows some benefit for select individuals to receive IV vitamin therapy.
What to do instead to help treat migraines
There are several ways proven to help prevent and treat migraines. Although IV vitamin therapy sounds appealing, it’s best to use science-backed and proven ways to treat migraine symptoms.
Increase omega-3 fatty acid consumption. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain relieving) effects. This can lessen the tension caused by headaches and, if taken regularly, is shown to reduce the frequency of migraines substantially.
Caffeine. It can decrease constriction of the vessels in the brain, causing less tension and, therefore, can lessen the tension causing a headache.
Lifestyle modifications. Identifying and managing triggers can be an important aspect of treating migraines. Common triggers, such as stress, lack of sleep, and hormonal fluctuation, are all known to increase migraine headaches. Getting good sleep and decreasing stress can help to reduce the frequency of migraines.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT can help improve overall psychological health and help those with migraines learn better coping mechanisms to manage and deal with stress that triggers migraines.
Dietary changes. Some people find that eliminating certain foods or following a migraine diet (a diet low in tyramine) can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.
Exercise. Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms and intensity of migraines by promoting overall well-being, improving the quality of sleep, and reducing stress.
Although quite popular in the mainstream media, IV vitamin therapy has little evidence to support its effects on migraines. There is data to support the effects of high-dose vitamin C IV therapy for treating symptoms in cancer patients; however, this does not seem to be the case for the general population.
Resources:
Frontiers in Oncology. The Effect of Intravenous Vitamin C on Cancer- and Chemotherapy-Related Fatigue and Quality of Life.
Merck Manual. IV vitamin Therapy (Meyer’s Cocktail).
Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Intravenous Micronutrient Therapy (Myers' Cocktail) for Fibromyalgia: A Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine. Vitamin D supplementation for the treatment of migraine: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies.
