How much does IV therapy cost?
How much does IV therapy cost?
$130 – $320 average cost per session
Average IV therapy cost
IV therapy costs $130 to $320 per session on average, depending on the infusion type, vitamins and minerals included, your location, and the provider. Individual nutrient add-ons cost $15 to $50 each. IV therapy is also called IV vitamin therapy, IV hydration therapy, and intravenous micronutrient therapy.
| IV therapy type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Myers Cocktail | $170 – $300 |
| Hydration | $135 – $200 |
| Immune boost | $150 – $300 |
| Energy boost | $160 – $320 |
| Hangover recovery | $130 – $300 |
| Migraine relief | $130 – $320 |
| Athletic performance | $160 – $320 |
| Beauty / anti-aging | $170 – $300 |
| Jet lag | $150 – $300 |
| NAD+ | $100 – $800 |
| Vitamin C | $130 – $250 |
| Individual nutrient add-ons | |
| Vitamin B12 | $15 – $50 |
| Vitamin C | $15 – $40 |
| Magnesium | $20 – $30 |
| Glutathione | $15 – $50 |
| Zinc | $20 – $30 |
| Zofran or Regaln (anti-nausea) | $20 – $30 |
The Myers Cocktail is the most popular mixture of IV vitamins and minerals. Named after Dr. John Myers, who popularized IV vitamin therapy in the 1950s, this mixture includes vitamins C, B12, B5, and B6, magnesium, and calcium.
What is IV therapy?
IV therapy involves delivering a high dose of vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream intravenously. This method bypasses the digestive system, allowing for faster and more complete absorption compared to oral supplements.
IV therapy proponents claim the treatment can improve your overall wellness and provide these benefits:
Boost energy and reduce fatigue
Enhance immunity
Improve focus and alertness
Relieve migraines and hangovers
Improve athletic performance
Aid in workout recovery
Reduce stress and anxiety
Eliminate dehydration
Improve skin, hair, and nails
Does IV therapy work?
The effectiveness of IV vitamin therapy remains the subject of ongoing research. While some studies suggest potential benefits for specific conditions like migraines or dehydration, others show inconclusive results or no benefits.
Most research studies have not tested IV therapy's effectiveness in people without vitamin or mineral deficiencies or specific medical conditions that interfere with nutrient absorption.
A systematic review of the clinical research concluded there was insufficient evidence to recommend IV vitamin therapy unless prescribed by a healthcare provider to treat a medical condition.
Is IV therapy safe?
The safety of IV therapy depends on which vitamins and minerals you choose, the individual doses, and how quickly the provider administers the infusion. IV vitamin therapy is generally considered safe for healthy people with no preexisting medical conditions. However, it is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Common side effects of IV therapy include:
Bruising or swelling at the injection site
Cold or chill sensation during the infusion
Nausea
Inflammation of the veins
Damage to blood vessels
Other less common but more serious complications include:
Rashes
Blood clots
Infection at the injection site
Vitamin toxicity from high doses of specific vitamins
Fatal arrhythmia from a potassium overdose
Nausea, headaches, or confusion from overhydration
People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid IV vitamin therapy unless prescribed by their doctor.
How long does IV therapy last?
The effects of IV therapy vary depending on the individual and the specific nutrients used, but the results typically last for a few days.
How long does IV therapy take?
An IV therapy session lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of infusion and the volume administered. Individuals with a higher body weight or certain medical conditions may require a longer session to ensure the body absorbs the nutrients properly.
IV vitamin therapy cost factors
The following factors influence the cost of IV therapy:
Ingredients: The specific vitamins, minerals, and other components included in the IV drip significantly impact the cost. More complex or higher-dose formulas tend to be more expensive.
Add-ons: Many providers offer individual nutrients you can add to your infusion for an extra fee. Popular add-ons include vitamin C, glutathione, and magnesium.
Provider: IV therapy is typically cheaper at a wellness spa or hydration bar compared to a medical clinic.
Mobile IV therapy: Some providers offer in-home IV therapy administered by a licensed registered nurse. Mobile therapy services typically cost more than treatment at a clinic or wellness spa.
Location: IV therapy prices are typically higher in major cities than in rural locations.
Good faith exam: Some state regulations require patients to undergo a brief telehealth or in-person appointment with a healthcare provider before receiving any form of IV therapy. Prices for this initial assessment range from $15 to $50.
FAQs about IV therapy
Does insurance cover IV therapy?
Medicaid and most private or commercial health insurance plans do not cover IV therapy unless your doctor deems it medically necessary to treat a specific condition. IV therapy is also not HSA- or FSA-eligible unless prescribed by a doctor to treat a diagnosed medical condition.
Who can administer IV therapy?
A qualified healthcare professional—such as a registered nurse, physician assistant, or doctor—can administer IV therapy. These individuals have the necessary training and expertise to ensure safe and correct administration.
Do you tip for IV therapy?
IV therapy providers do not expect a tip. However, some customers tip 10% to 20% if they feel the provider went above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and positive experience.
What to look for in an IV therapy provider
Before getting IV vitamin therapy, consult a registered dietitian or certified nutritionist near you. A nutritionist can help you determine if you have any vitamin deficiencies and whether you would benefit from IV therapy.
Choosing a qualified, reputable IV therapy provider is crucial to ensure your safety. Here are some key considerations:
Compare prices from two to three providers. Confirm the prices include the same IV infusions.
Choose a provider who specializes in administering IV therapy.
Select a clinic or spa that offers a free consultation or personalized assessment of your needs before recommending an IV infusion.
Choose a clinic that is transparent about their pricing structure. Request a quote up front for the total cost including any extra fees.
Confirm the clinic and provider are licensed and certified in your state.
Questions to ask a nutritionist about IV therapy
Ask a nutritionist these important questions before booking an appointment for IV therapy:
Do I need IV therapy to meet my nutritional needs?
How often should I get IV therapy?
Which nutrients do you recommend?
What are the potential risks and benefits of IV therapy for me?
What are the potential side effects of the specific ingredients in the IV drip?
Are there any tests you recommend to assess my nutrient deficiencies?
How do you determine if my body is effectively absorbing and using the IV nutrients?
How does IV nutrient delivery differ from getting nutrients through food or oral supplements?
Are there alternative options to achieve my health goals?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.