IV Therapy for Hangovers: How Does It Work

iv therapy for hangovers

We have all experienced the impact of heavy drinking – a horrendous hangover. It is the cumulatively crippling sensation of fatigue, dry mouth, and unpleasant headaches the day after.

Hangovers are the worst possible experiences that occur due to extreme dehydration and gastrointestinal dysfunction.

There are several ways to combat alcohol-induced fatigue, such as counter medications, home remedies and electrolyte water. However, there is no quick, magical process to treat hangovers unless we discuss IV therapy.

IV therapy has long been a popular medical choice to treat multiple health concerns. It is renowned for its availability and effectiveness amidst the various extended cures. However, despite its popularity, people are unaware of its abilities, especially its biochemical excellence. For instance, IV therapy at home effectively resolves the unpleasant after-effects of heavy alcohol consumption.

IV therapy for hangovers is the fastest mode of alcohol fatigue relief and curbs the diverse causes instantaneously. It helps cure the adverse physiological effects of alcohol with specific ingredients in the solution.

With our extensive experience in the healthcare field, we conclude that the Hangover IV drip is the best solution to alcohol fatigue.

This meticulous read elaborates on our knowledge of IV therapy, its benefits and the complete intravenous process. We will discuss aftercare measures and how to experience IV drip from the comfort of home to avoid complications.

What is a Hangover?

Hangover is the collective term for a set of consequences caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The typical results are prolonged weakness, severe headache, sound and light sensitivity, a spike in blood pressure, fatigue, etc. The severity of a hangover varies for each person and depends on the amount of alcohol exposed to.

In the majority of cases, a hangover can last up to 24 hours and impacts 75% of consumers.

Let us understand the chemical process behind a hangover.

A hangover is the result of a toxic compound build-up in the body – acetaldehyde. It is the first by-product resulting from the alcohol break and is ten times more harmful to the body than alcohol itself. It is the primary chemical compound triggering nausea, vomiting and sweating.

Another reason apart from chemical release is the dysfunctional immune system. The human body’s immune system utilises cytokines to alert or signal the body. These molecules generally trigger inflammatory responses, preventing the body from possible reactions.

The heavy alcohol intake leads to immune system malfunction and increases cytokine levels. This increase leads to symptoms like headache, nausea and cognitive disruptions of the body.

Causes and Symptoms of a Hangover

The hangover experience varies from person to person, depending on the amount of alcohol, the reaction to the chemicals, and the resistance quotient. The symptoms start appearing the next day of consumption; this is when the alcohol content has lowered or is near zero in the blood. Depending on the above factors, the following symptoms are visible in varied strengths –

1. Fatigue
2. Nausea and vomiting
3. Headaches and muscle pain
4. Dry mouth or Polydipsia
5. Sensitivity to light and sound
6. Sleep disruptions
7. Increased blood pressure
8. Dizziness, tremors and vertigo
9. Concentration issues
10. Extreme sweating or Diaphoresis

The chances of experiencing all the symptoms depend on several factors. Some individuals experience all of the above after a drink or two, while others may not face such troubles except headaches.

The cause –

Alcohol causes hangover – this is simple. However, it has complex effects on the human body.

Let us elaborate on all the functional discomforts alcohol causes and leads to a hangover.

1. Dehydration

Alcohol has diuretic effects on the body and urges the consumer to urinate more than average. An individual can lose a quarter of their urinary fluids after four drinks. Additionally, the consumption reduces vasopressin in the body, which is responsible for fluid balance. The overall effects lead to dehydration, headache and weakness.

2. Toxin release

Alcohol releases multiple toxins into the bloodstream, having numerous effects on the human body. Ethanol, the alcoholic compound, leads to cell damage and irritation in the body. Similarly, another harmful toxin, acetaldehyde, develops when alcohol breaks down in the liver. Although the glutathione levels in our bodies limit the damage of this compound, excessive alcohol diminishes the abilities. Thus, the overall toxin release leads to severe headaches and sickness.

3. Electrolyte imbalance

Electrolytes are positively and negatively charged particles in a solution. These include essential minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, etc., and are responsible for the metabolic process. Alcohol consumption affects vasopressin levels, which are responsible for controlling controls fluid loss. It leads to excess loss of liquids, including electrolytes. The deprivation of liquid results in fatigue, muscle pain, vomiting, arrhythmia and more.

4. Congeners

Congeners are certain compounds produced during alcohol fermentation and actively contribute to hangovers. Darker alcoholic beverages, such as red wine and whiskey, have higher congener levels and intensify the hangover symptoms. These substances cause headaches, nausea, and overall discomfort, adding to the severity of the hangover experience.

5. Sleep Disruptions

Contrary to popular belief, alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle. It prevents the human body from reaching restorative REM sleep. Therefore, poor-quality sleep contributes to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and cognitive impairment during a hangover. It makes the overall hangover recovery process challenging.

6. Immune System Suppression

Alcohol suppresses the immune system and leaves the body vulnerable to infections and illnesses. A compromised immune system responds negatively during a hangover and increases susceptibility to colds, flu-like symptoms, and a general feeling of being unwell.

7. Blood Vessel Expansion

Alcohol expands the blood vessels and leads to headaches and migraines. The dilated vessels contribute to increased blood flow to the brain, resulting in heightened sensitivity and pain. The outcome also increases sensitivity to environmental exposures, like light and sound.

Blood vessel expansion is a critical factor in the throbbing headaches commonly associated with hangovers.

8. Acute Pancreatitis

Excessive alcohol consumption leads to inflammation of the pancreas, known as acute pancreatitis. This acute complication causes severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and nausea. The inflammation further complicates the hangover experience, intensifying discomfort and prolonging recovery.

9. Metabolism Interference

Alcohol interferes with metabolism levels, leading to a build-up of toxic by-products. This metabolic disturbance contributes to feelings of sluggishness, dizziness, and cognitive impairment during a hangover. The struggle to process the alcohol-related by-products prolongs the recovery period.

10. Hormonal Imbalance

During alcohol intake, the human body reduces cortisol release and spikes up dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals offer a pseudo-feeling of less stress and anxiety and increase happiness. During the withdrawal or hangover phase, the cortisol release resumes and increases. The hormonal imbalance contributes to feelings of unease, heightened anxiety and an overall sense of discomfort.

These are all the physiological effects the human body struggles with during a hangover situation. Understandably, a hangover or alcohol withdrawal is more than what appears, and chemical imbalance has a profound effect on the body.

Why aren’t only fluids enough?

Since dehydration is the primary struggle, rehydrating with fluids is crucial to hangover recovery. However, it would be best to have more fluids due to hangovers’ multifaceted and biochemical nature.

We have already discussed the symptoms and causes of a hangover. The phase involves more than just dehydration; it encompasses a range of physiological disruptions that demand comprehensive intervention. Hence, only fluid intake is never enough.

Alcohol disrupts the body’s vasopressin production, a hormone responsible for maintaining fluid balance. This disruption, coupled with alcohol’s diuretic properties, leads to excessive fluid excretion. Replenishing fluids helps address dehydration but fails to counteract hormonal imbalances and electrolyte deficiencies.

We have also observed that the bloodstream’s toxins, such as acetaldehyde, require targeted intervention. Acetaldehyde, a by-product of alcohol metabolism, induces cell damage and irritation. The body has anti-mechanisms, like glutathione, to mitigate this damage; however, excessive alcohol overwhelms these defences. The influx of fluids barely expedites the detoxification process or mitigates the cellular damage.

Electrolyte imbalance is another critical aspect that cannot solely depend on fluids. Alcohol disrupts the levels of essential minerals, like sodium, potassium, and magnesium and intensifies fatigue, muscle pain, and vomiting. The electrolytes are crucial to various metabolic processes, and the imbalance requires targeted replenishment beyond fluids for efficient recovery.

Conclusively, hydration is fundamental; however, a comprehensive approach addresses hormonal imbalances, detoxification needs, and electrolyte deficiencies. It is where Intravenous therapy or IV therapy comes into play.

IV therapy directly delivers essential fluids, electrolytes, and other nutrients to expedite recovery. It alleviates the diverse symptoms associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
Let us learn more about IV therapy at home in Dubai and how it can help treat hangovers.

What is IV therapy?

Intravenous or IV therapy is a medical technique of directing fluids, nutrients, and specific medications into the bloodstream through a vein. It bypasses the digestive system, allowing a rapid and efficient absorption of essential recovery agents.

IV therapy has gained popularity for its ability to address various health concerns, especially for delivering quick results when treating hangovers.

It is a targeted solution to counteract the specific physiological disruptions resulting from excessive alcohol consumption. A typical IV hangover treatment involves a carefully formulated concoction, including hydrating fluids, electrolytes, vitamins, and medications tailored to alleviate hangover symptoms.

The hydrating fluids in the IV solution address dehydration and help the body cope with diuretic effects. Electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, are replenished to restore the body’s balance, and vitamins, especially those from the B-complex group, are included to support well-being and boost energy levels.

IV therapy is administered under the supervision of healthcare professionals, ensuring a safe and controlled process. It is a popular choice among individuals seeking a swift solution to post-alcohol discomfort.

Beyond hangovers, IV therapy is helpful in various medical conditions, like hydration, nutrient supplementation, and medical treatments. The versatility of IV therapy in the medical realm helps promote overall health and wellness.

Benefits of IV Therapy for Hangover –

For people struggling with severe alcohol hangover more than the average, we suggest alcohol detox with IV therapy for the distinct advantages. It provides a targeted and expedited solution compared to traditional hangover recovery methods.

I. Rapid Rehydration – The direct infusion of fluids into the bloodstream ensures swift rehydration, devoid of oral intake delays. It addresses the dehydration caused by the diuretic effects and provides immediate relief from headache and fatigue.

II. Electrolyte Restoration – IV therapy delivers a precise balance of electrolytes, including sodium and potassium, directly to the body. It effectively counters the electrolyte imbalance and caters to symptoms like muscle pain, vomiting, and fatigue.

III. Efficient Nutrient Absorption – IV solutions include essential vitamins, particularly those from the B-complex group. The intravenous process ensures optimal absorption and helps restore energy levels rapidly.

IV. Tailored Medications – In some cases, IV therapy may include medications to treat specific hangover symptoms, such as nausea or headaches. A personalised IV approach enhances the efficacy of the treatment, providing relief for a plethora of discomfort.

V. Professional Supervision – IV therapy is administered under professional supervision for the safety and efficacy of the treatment. The controlled environment and customised concoctions contribute to a secure recovery process.

Being aware of the benefits of intravenous treatment for hangovers, individuals can make informed choices about recovery methods. It is essential to recognise the efficiency of a tailored IV therapy for hangovers for a healthy recovery.

How does an IV drip help cure hangovers?

Now that you are aware of how beneficial IV therapy is for hangover treatment, it will be easier to explain the functioning of an IV drip.

We assure you that fluid intake alone will not help treat severe hangovers. Therefore, the intravenous treatment is the quickest path to the bloodstream. The IV drip efficiently incorporates fluids, vitamins and minerals into the body and helps combat the hangover symptoms.

Here is what is inside the IV drip that eases out the hangover recovery –

• Pain and nausea medication to offer quick relief from the overall stress, headache and stomach pain.
• Saline to regain the loss of essential fluids.
• Electrolytes combat the lack of minerals and curb the chances of fatigue and vomiting.
• Vitamins, especially the B-complex group, are affected by alcohol consumption.
• Glutathione reduces oxidation and cellular damage levels and retains damaged tissues.

IV therapy for hangovers is an intravenous process, and it is essential to be done by experienced professionals. There are various types of IV drips. We advise you to consult the healthcare provider and find a suitable IV drip for the specific condition.

On IV absorption into the bloodstream, the following things occur immediately –

• The specially formulated solution is infused directly into the person’s bloodstream; the fluids and nutrients get absorbed immediately.
• The isotonic saline solution addresses the dehydration and reduces the diuretic effects.
• The precise balance of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, restores physiological functions and curbs symptoms like muscle cramps and weakness.
• The IV solution is enriched with vitamins, including B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12), vitamin C, and others. The direct infusion supports cellular metabolism, energy production, and overall recovery.
• The antioxidants aid the liver in detoxification, neutralise free radicals, and assist in mitigating cell damage.

It is essential to seek trained healthcare professionals who ensure precision and safety for hangover IV therapy at home. They monitor the alcohol detox with IV therapy and make adjustments as needed based on the individual’s response.

We highlight professional oversight as it contributes to the positive results of intravenous treatment for hangovers and addresses unique needs.

The IV Therapy Process

The IV therapy for hangovers entails an IV drip, an isotonic saline-electrolyte solution and a catheter tube for the intravenous insertion. While there are multiple types of IV fluids, some are specific to hangovers, and the healthcare practitioners decide upon the concentrations.

The concentration, flow rate, and what the IV must contain depends upon the consumption and after-effects of the alcohol.

Here is the step-by-step IV therapy process, explained in detail –

1. Consultation and Assessment

Qualified and licensed medical professionals assess the condition, medical history, and other related health checkups to determine the type of IV therapy required. It is an essential step as it determines the strength of the treatment and the specific medication necessary.

The medical professional will also explain IV therapy’s benefits, risks, and costs and answer any questions.

2. Preparation

The next step is to prepare for the IV therapy procedure. Patients must sign a consent form, provide a blood sample, and complete the mandatory health questionnaire. At this stage, medical practitioners suggest drinking plenty of water, having a light meal, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine or any over-the-counter medications.

3. Administration

The third step is the intravenous process of the therapy. Patients are seated in a comfortable chair, and a medical professional inserts a thin needle called the catheter into a vein in the arm or hand. Professionals use a numbing solution to make the process painless.

The catheter is attached to a tube that connects to a bag of IV fluid containing the necessary ingredients for treating the hangover. The fluids drip slowly into the vein, and the medical professionals will monitor the vital signs and adjust the flow rate accordingly.

The IV therapy for hangover usually lasts for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the amount and type of IV fluid.

4. Recovery

Some individuals may experience minor side effects, such as skin bruising and swelling, or sometimes soreness at the infusion site, which subside within a few hours. It is advisable to drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet, and avoid alcohol and caffeine for the rest of the day.

Please note: IV therapy is not a cure for alcohol intoxication or addiction, and it does not prevent future hangovers. The best way to avoid a hangover is to drink alcohol in moderation, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy diet. If you are interested in learning more about IV therapy for hangovers, check out the resources available at Nexx.

Post-Drinking IV Wellness – After Care Measures

Once done with the IV therapy, patients must be aware of post-care measures to avoid complications and infection in the injected area.

Here are a few medical measures to stay aligned with –

1. It is natural to have slight tenderness in the injected area because of the inserted catheter, and it will subdue in 2 to 3 days. If there is a persistent bruise, it will take 1 or 2 weeks to resolve.

2. Cold packs on the IV site help to reduce swelling and pain management. Warm packs are ideal to eliminate bruising in the area. Both the conditions self-resolve within 48 hours.

3. It is advisable to consume plenty of water to avoid further dehydration. Lack of fluid intake can lead to headaches, nausea, joint pain and similar hangover symptoms.

4. It is essential to be mindful of the injection site and avoid mistreating it.

5. Most patients feel better right away after IV therapy. However, some individuals can feel unwell or tired. It is a sign of detoxification and takes some time to heal.

6. If the catheter site bleeds, we recommend sitting calmly and applying pressure to the area for 20 minutes. Cotton swabs are ideal for cleaning the wound. The best step is to consult a professional if the bleeding does not stop.

Seek professional help if there is- 

• Significant swelling that does not reduce after a cold pack.
• Redness around the injection has not resolved within 48 hours.
• Severe pain that is not improving after 12 hours.
• Persistent headache after considerable hydration.
• Visible signs of infection or allergy in the area.

Where to Get IV Therapy for Hangovers?

If you are looking for IV therapy for hangovers, you have several options to choose from, depending on your preferences, availability, and budget. Some clinics offer at-home hangover cures via IV to avoid travel complications and in a familiar environment.

From a patient’s perspective, hangover IV at home is a convenient choice and adds more flexibility to the therapy schedule. It is a lot more private and devoid of the long hours in the hospital.

However, owing to the popularity of IV treatment for alcohol-induced fatigue, there has been an increase in clinics offering at-home IV therapy. It is tedious to find the best IV therapy professionals in town. However, it is vital to consult the best professionals who can provide you with safe, effective, and quality IV therapy for hangovers. To make it easier, here are some steps to find the best clinic for a hangover cure via IV.

Here are some tips on how to find the best professionals for IV therapy for hangovers:

 • Qualification and expertise: The best professionals for IV therapy for hangovers should have the proper experience and qualifications. It includes a medical degree, nursing license, certification in IV therapy, and malpractice insurance. Verifying their expertise by asking them directly or contacting their regulatory body or association is necessary.

• Reputation and reviews: Positive reputation and reviews are signs of quality and effective IV treatment. Analysing the reviews offers credible insight into services and makes decision-making easy. There are several platforms to find reviews – searching online, testimonials, and social media pages.

• Services and prices: There is more than one IV therapy service for a hangover cure. The best IV clinic displays various services with prices catering to different patient needs. The ideal option is to contact the IV clinic to learn more about their IV therapy procedures and find a suitable treatment.

• Transparency and Communication: Each hangover pattern is unique and can give rise to several complications. A renowned IV clinic will be transparent about the IV therapy process and readily communicate the effects and after-effects. At Nexx, we positively go beyond by offering post-therapy guidance to help individuals cope with physiological turbulences.

• Cleanliness and Safety: IV therapy, as the name suggests, is an intravenous process. It is, therefore, critical to look for a sterile environment to avoid infectious situations. The best professionals in the IV domain practice hygiene standards to mitigate cross-contamination and medical wastage.

• Regulations and policies: IV therapy providers must adhere to health and safety protocols. Every professional must meet the license requirements to offer intravenous treatment for hangovers and other medical concerns. The qualification and guidelines maintained ensure the best quality drip therapy for alcohol-abused fatigue.

When choosing an IV clinic, remember that health is the top priority and the ideal clinic practices a patient-first treatment approach.

Experience your First IV Therapy Session at Nexx

We are at the end of this comprehensive read and have exchanged valuable information about IV therapy for hangovers. It is a reliable method to treat hangover dehydration, fatigue, nausea and other troubles. The primary benefit of intravenous drip therapy is the instant effect on the person’s health.

If you are looking for a professional hangover cure via IV, Nexx is the best home IV therapy provider in Dubai. Here, you can avail of at-home IV therapy with optimum safety and security offered by licensed professionals. Our home healthcare in Dubai includes customised IV drip procedures to cure specific alcohol-abused conditions.

The healthcare experts are adept in patient-focused treatment and offer immediate relief from alcohol after-effects. Consult with Nexx professionals to learn more about IV infusion for hangovers and other health concerns. Explore satisfactory healthcare services from the comforts of home.

IV Therapy – Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Alcohol-detox with IV therapy a safe procedure?

IV therapy is safe for a hangover cure under proper professional guidance. However, safety and cleanliness protocols are mandatory to avoid cross-contamination or infection. At Nexx, DHA-approved, licensed healthcare practitioners administer the IV therapy sessions.

• How long is an Alcohol IV drip session?

The IV treatment process takes 45 minutes, including form submissions and healthcare assessment. It is an at-home IV therapy procedure and is a convenient and flexible model for most individuals.

• Are there any side effects to hangover IV at home?

There are some mild after-effects of an IV therapy session. It includes redness, discomfort, swelling and itching. In case of severe side effects, it is advisable to consult the professionals.

We have prepared the list of aftercare measures in this comprehensive read.

• Does IV therapy hurt?

While pain tolerance varies from person to person, IV therapy is not hurtful. A numbing gel is applied to reduce the needle prick pain.

• How many times can I get an IV?

IV therapies resolve multiple health conditions and not just hangovers. An individual can get 2 IV therapies a month to maintain healthy vitamin levels in the body. However, for hangover purposes, it is advisable to reduce alcohol consumption for overall well-being.

• What IV drips can I book now for a hangover?

Currently, there are two Alcohol IV drips available – the Basic Hangover IV and the Express Hangover IV. Feel free to consult with Nexx’s healthcare professionals and find the ideal treatment package.