Do Hangover IV Drips Really Help? What You Should Know

Hangover IV drips are marketed in several countries as a quick fix after heavy drinking. This guide explains what these infusions commonly contain and whether they truly help with hangover symptoms.

Below you will find an outline of the common ingredients, safety considerations, and how effective they may be.

What are hangover IV drips made of?

Infusions usually mix fluids, minerals, vitamins, and sometimes medicines. They aim to restore hydration and nutrients, but they do not sober you up or instantly reduce intoxication.

Isotonic saline (sodium chloride)

This standard saline solution rehydrates the body after alcohol-related dehydration. Alone, it won’t clear alcohol from the system or remove intoxication.

Potassium and magnesium solutions

Electrolytes support fluid balance and heart function. People who drink heavily can be magnesium-deficient, and magnesium is often added to address gaps and withdrawal-related cramps or arrhythmias. If you have no such issues, magnesium may not provide proven withdrawal benefits.

Sodium thiosulfate

Used in some poisonings and to mitigate certain chemotherapy side effects, it carries contraindications such as asthma, electrolyte imbalances, heart or kidney disease, and high blood pressure.

B vitamins

Chronic alcohol use can deplete thiamine (vitamin B1), essential for energy metabolism. Low levels increase the risk of Wernicke’s encephalopathy, a serious brain condition.

Vitamin C

Often added as an antioxidant, but evidence of benefit in withdrawal or recovery is unclear.

Glucose

Alcohol can lower blood sugar, leading to weakness and mood changes. Glucose is sometimes included to keep energy levels stable.

Diuretics

These drugs promote urine production. They may be used to lower blood pressure during a hangover or to speed toxin elimination, but guidelines do not recommend diuretics for withdrawal and they can cause electrolyte losses and dehydration.

Hepatoprotectants

Medications such as metadoxine and ademetionine (SAMe) are sometimes added to support liver function. Evidence is mixed and they are not suitable for everyone; interactions with some mental health meds are possible.

Pain relief

Painkillers like metamizol (dipyrone) may be used for headaches, but this drug is banned in several countries due to the risk of severe low white blood cell counts.

Tranquilizers and antidepressants

Drugs such as diazepam or phenazepam may be used to reduce anxiety and help sleep, but they require careful medical supervision.

Nootropics

Glycine and piracetam are sometimes added to support brain function. Evidence in people is weak; most studies are in animals or cells, and high-dose glycine can be toxic. They are not widely approved in many countries.

Are there standard hangover drips?

There is no universal recipe. The composition is tailored to the individual by the clinician.

Expert comment: Dr. Igor Lazarev notes that for a mild hangover, rehydration and electrolytes may suffice. However, withdrawal requires targeted pharmacotherapy, especially tranquilizers.

Effectiveness

There are no high-quality international studies showing a clear benefit of hangover IV therapy when performed at home. In the United States, withdrawal guidelines emphasize benzodiazepines for anxiety and sleep, with magnesium and thiamine as needed for deficiencies. In Russia, some clinics use a broader mix, including antioxidants and nootropics, but the evidence remains limited and treatment should be individualized.

Should you get an IV drip? If the hangover is mild and there is no urge to drink again, you can recover with rest, fluids, and a balanced meal. For severe symptoms or withdrawal, seek medical assessment rather than relying on a home drip. A professional evaluation helps ensure safety and avoids potential complications.

IV therapy can pose risks, so proper evaluation, ECG, and vital signs monitoring are essential, and treatment should be guided by a healthcare professional.

When to call emergency services

• high fever or severe dehydration
• seizures
• extremely confused or unable to stay awake
• hallucinations
• irregular heartbeat
• vomiting blood or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding

These conditions can be life-threatening. Do not wait at home; call emergency numbers (911 in the United States, 112 in many regions) immediately.

Conclusion: Hangover IV drips may help with hydration and replenishing certain nutrients, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. A medical evaluation is essential, especially if withdrawal symptoms occur or if there is any doubt about safety.

Key insight: Hydration and personalized medical care are the safest path; IV drips are not a universal cure for hangovers, and withdrawal requires professional assessment.