Intravenous Vitamins - The Myer’s Cocktail By Dr. Meghan Stobbs

You may have heard about intravenous (IV) vitamin therapies, or the “Myer’s Cocktail,” but are unsure of what this therapy entails, and if it will benefit you.  Well, you are in luck!  This article is designed to answer all your questions around this very beneficial therapy.

What is a Myer’s Cocktail?
The Myer’s Cocktail is a very effective therapy that has been used by Naturopathic Physicians and other Complementary and Alternative health care practitioners for over half a century.  This therapy was initially developed by Dr. John Myers MD, and further refined and popularized by Dr. Alan Gaby MD.  

A Myer’s treatment is typically a combination of Vitamins C, B complex, B5, B6, B12, Folic Acid, Magnesium, and Selenium (blended with saline of sterile water).  The amounts of these vitamins and minerals will depend on the patient and the particular health concern being treated.  The nutrient combination is infused directly into the circulation, through a vein, generally over 10-20 minutes by a gentle “push,” or 30-45 minutes by “drip.”

Why give IV nutrients as opposed to oral?
Infusing a nutrient solution directly into the blood allows for more thorough and rapid absorption and utilization of the vitamins and minerals.  This is because adding a mixture directly into the circulation will bypass the digestive system, where most nutrients are poorly absorbed and mostly eliminated.  Additionally, some side effects from high dose oral administration (for example loose stools from high doses of oral Vitamin C and Magnesium) are avoided.

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 Who can benefit from Myer’s Cocktails? 
Almost anyone can benefit from this therapy.  This includes individuals who feel healthy overall but would like an additional boost in mood or energy.  It may be useful in those that have higher needs for specific nutrients such as athletes, students, of professionals under high levels of acute and chronic stress.  Those with lowered immune function, or would like to prevent the onset of colds and flus will also benefit from this therapy.  Additionally, clinical improvement has been documented after administration of IV nutrients in people who suffer from the following health conditions:

• Asthma
• Migraine and tension headache
• Fatigue (including chronic fatigue syndrome and adrenal fatigue)
• Acute muscle spasm
• Muscle recovery from endurance
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Chronic sinusitis
• Seasonal allergic rhinitis
• Chronic urticaria
• Depression, anxiety and the effects of acute and chronic stress
• Poor memory and concentration
• Hormonal imbalance

How often is a Myer’s Cocktail given?
The frequency of treatments depends on the individual patient and what health concern is being treated.  For acute health concerns, such as muscle spasms, sinusitis, or upper respiratory infections, only one to two treatments may be required.  In anticipation of a high stress event (wedding, final exams, long hours at work), or in preparation for an athletic event such as a marathon or fitness competition, a Myer’s Cocktail may be given weekly for a period of three to five weeks or more.  Frequency is tapered down when symptom improvement is noted.  For ongoing chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic urticaria, or mood disorders frequency is assessed on an individual basis.  

Are there any side effects?
The most common side effect of a Myer’s Cocktail is the sensation of heat.  This effect is caused by Magnesium, which is a potent vasodilator.  Vasodilation can cause your blood pressure to lower, which can lead to light-headedness and syncope (fainting).  During the therapy, Dr. Stobbs will watch for signs of heat, and low blood pressure, and adjust the infusion accordingly.  These side effects are easily avoided with slower administration of the therapy.  Other side effects may include redness or irritation at the site of injection, which resolves shortly after the treatment.

What is the costs of a Myer’s treatment?

• Myer’s Cocktail Drip - $85.00 (includes GST)
• Myer’s Cocktail Push - $70.00 (includes GST)

If you are a new patient to Dr. Stobbs, an initial consultation is required before the administration of IV nutrients to assess your medical history, and current state of health.

**Naturopathic consultation and service fees are covered under most extended medical plans through your employer.  Please check with the details of your plan to see your level of coverage.**

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