A Myers cocktail is the most requested IV drip in the country — and the one most people can't quite describe. Here's exactly what's in it, what it's used for, how long the effects last, and what it costs in Boston.
What is a Myers cocktail?
The Myers cocktail is an intravenous vitamin and mineral blend developed by Baltimore physician Dr. John Myers in the 1960s and later popularized by Dr. Alan Gaby. It delivers magnesium, calcium, B vitamins (including B12), and vitamin C directly into the bloodstream through a small IV catheter — bypassing the digestive tract entirely.
That last part is the whole point. Oral vitamins are limited by gut absorption; IV delivery puts nutrients into circulation at 100% bioavailability, which is why a Myers cocktail can raise blood nutrient levels far beyond what a pill or gummy can reach.
Myers cocktail IV ingredients
| Ingredient | Why it's in the bag |
|---|---|
| Magnesium chloride | Muscle relaxation, migraine and tension relief, nervous-system support |
| Calcium gluconate | Works with magnesium for muscle and nerve signaling |
| Vitamin B12 (hydroxocobalamin/cyanocobalamin) | Energy metabolism, red blood cell production, mental clarity |
| B-complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6) | Converts food into usable cellular energy |
| Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) | Immune support, antioxidant, collagen synthesis |
| Sterile saline base | Rehydration — usually 500–1000 mL of fluid |
Clinics vary the doses, and many (including ours) offer add-ons like glutathione, zinc, or extra vitamin C layered on top of the classic formula.
Myers cocktail benefits
- Fatigue and low energy — the B-vitamin and B12 load supports cellular energy production.
- Migraines and tension headaches — IV magnesium is the most-cited reason people return for this drip.
- Immune support — high-dose vitamin C during cold and flu season, or before/after travel.
- Dehydration — a full liter of fluid does the heavy lifting after illness, heat, or a hard weekend.
- Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue — the original clinical population Dr. Myers treated.
- Athletic recovery — fluid plus electrolytes plus B vitamins after endurance training.
Worth saying plainly: most evidence for the Myers cocktail is clinical and anecdotal rather than large randomized trials. It is widely used and generally well tolerated, but it is not a treatment for any disease.
How long does a Myers cocktail last?
The infusion itself takes 30–45 minutes. Most people feel the hydration and B12 lift within a few hours.
Effects typically last 3–7 days, depending on your baseline nutrient status, hydration, sleep, and stress. People using it for energy or migraine prevention often land on a rhythm of every 2–4 weeks; people using it situationally (travel, illness, big events) come in as needed.
Side effects and who should skip it
The most common sensations are a warm flush from magnesium, a metallic taste during the push, and mild soreness at the IV site. Serious reactions are rare when the drip is placed by a licensed nurse.
Talk to your physician first if you have kidney disease, heart failure, a history of kidney stones, G6PD deficiency (relevant for high-dose vitamin C), or are pregnant.
How much does a Myers cocktail cost in Boston?
Nationally, Myers cocktail IVs run roughly $150–$250. At IV League Hydration in South Boston, our Myers-style drips start at $149, and members save 10% on every drip. If you've never tried IV therapy, our $79 Rookie drip + B12 shot bundle is the easiest way to see how you respond before stepping up to a full Myers.
Myers cocktail FAQ
How often can you get a Myers cocktail?
Weekly is common during illness or a heavy training block; every 2–4 weeks is typical for ongoing energy and migraine support.
Does it hurt?
You'll feel the initial IV stick — about the same as a blood draw. After that, most clients read, work, or nap through the drip.
Is a Myers cocktail covered by insurance?
Generally no. Elective IV vitamin therapy is paid out of pocket; HSA/FSA cards are often accepted.
Myers cocktail vs. a banana bag — what's the difference?
A banana bag is a hospital-style fluid bag with thiamine, folic acid, and magnesium, built for depletion and hangover recovery. A Myers cocktail is a broader vitamin and mineral blend built for energy, immunity, and general wellness.
Book a Myers cocktail in Boston
We're at 47 L Street in South Boston, open seven days with same-day appointments, and we've been drip-ing Boston since 2018. Book in 60 seconds or explore the full drip menu.