Myers' cocktail is an intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy that lacks sufficient scientific evidence to support its use as a medical treatment.[1] The term, Myers' cocktail, is included in Quackwatch's index of questionable treatments.[2]
Medical experts warn that intravenous vitamins, such as the Myers' cocktail, do not have any benefits and should be considered modern-day snake oil.[3][4] Injecting vitamins into the bloodstream is potentially harmful due to risk of infection and possible allergic reaction.[5]
The name is attributed to Baltimore physician John A. Myers. Prior to passing away in 1984, Myers allegedly administered vitamin infusions to patients.[6] Despite claims to the contrary, the original formula is unknown.
Naturopathic doctors in the United States and Canada often administer the IV drip in clinics and health spas.[7][8]
References
- ^ Ellin, Abby (2014-12-24). "IV Drips Touted as Hangover Relief". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2020-01-14.
- ^ Barrett, S (2011-03-24). "Index of Questionable Treatments". Quackwatch. Retrieved 2013-01-24.
- ^ Payne, Elizabeth (1 August 2015). "Popular intravenous therapy raises eyebrows". Ottawa Citizen. Retrieved 10 July 2016.
- ^ Gavura, Scott (24 May 2013). "A closer look at vitamin injections". Science-Based Medicine. Retrieved 10 July 2016.
- ^ "Are Vitamin Infusions the Next Juice Cleanse?". Shape. Retrieved 2020-01-14.
- ^ "A closer look at vitamin injections". sciencebasedmedicine.org. Retrieved 2020-01-14.
- ^ Verner, Amy (12 July 2010). "Run-down execs and celebs embrace the vitamin drip". Globe and Mail. Retrieved 10 July 2016.
- ^ Kirkey, Sharon (21 July 2015). "Hooking up to an IV drip is the latest health fad, but critics say there is little proof it works". National Post. Retrieved 10 July 2016.