Myers Cocktail Archives

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DoctorShawn

19/May/2023

Vitamin injections have gained a lot of popularity in recent years, especially among celebrities and influencers. From improving skin clarity to boosting energy levels, the promised benefits of vitamin infusions are endless. However, are these claims backed by science, or is it just clever marketing? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the ingredients in these celebrity vitamin infusions, the actual benefits they provide, and separate hype from fact.

The Ingredients:

A typical celebrity vitamin infusion usually contains a mixture of vitamins, minerals, and sometimes amino acids. Popular ingredients include vitamin C, B-vitamins, calcium, selenium, zinc and magnesium. These vitamins and minerals play an important role in almost all biological processes but do they really need to be injected rather than obtained through diet?

The Benefits:

Many celebrities claim that vitamin injections help with everything from weight loss to anti-aging. Still, most of these alleged benefits are based on anecdotal evidence rather than any scientific findings.

Let’s take a look at some of the actual research behind intravenous vitamins and minerals in order to separate fact from fiction.

Myers Cocktail:

The Myers’ Cocktail is an intravenous (IV) treatment that consists of a combination of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, calcium, vitamin C, and various B vitamins. It was developed by Dr. John Myers in the 1960s and has been used to address various health conditions such as fatigue, migraines, fibromyalgia, and others. While there is limited research on the Myers’ Cocktail, some studies have explored its potential benefits:

A study by Gaby (2002) published in “Alternative Medicine Review” provided a review of the clinical experience with the Myers’ Cocktail. The author reported that the IV treatment had shown positive effects on various conditions, including acute asthma attacks, migraines, fatigue, fibromyalgia, and chronic sinusitis. However, it’s important to note that this review is based on clinical observations rather than randomized controlled trials.
A randomized controlled trial by Ali et al. (2009) published in “Medical Science Monitor” investigated the effects of the Myers’ Cocktail on fibromyalgia patients. The study found that the participants who received the IV treatment experienced significant improvements in pain, tender points, and depression compared to the control group.
In a pilot study by Zhang et al. (2012) published in “Global Advances in Health and Medicine,” the researchers studied the effects of the Myers’ Cocktail on patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. They reported improvements in fatigue levels, but the small sample size and lack of a control group limit the study’s conclusions.

High dose Vitamin C for Cancer?

Yes, there has been research exploring the potential benefits of high-dose intravenous vitamin C in cancer treatment. However, the results are mixed, and more research is needed to establish its effectiveness conclusively. Here are a few notable studies:

A study by Ma et al. (2014) published in “Science Translational Medicine” found that high-dose intravenous vitamin C selectively killed colorectal cancer cells with specific genetic mutations. The authors suggested that vitamin C might be used as a targeted therapy in some cases.
A study by Welsh et al. (2013) published in “Cancer Cell” reported that high-dose intravenous vitamin C enhanced the effects of chemotherapy in mouse models of pancreatic cancer. The authors concluded that vitamin C could be a potential adjuvant in pancreatic cancer treatment.
A systematic review by Fritz et al. (2014) published in “Canadian Medical Association Journal” analyzed several clinical trials on the use of intravenous vitamin C in cancer patients. They found that intravenous vitamin C was safe and well-tolerated, but its effectiveness in improving survival and quality of life was inconclusive.
A phase II clinical trial by Hoffer et al. (2015) published in “PLOS ONE” investigated the effects of intravenous vitamin C combined with chemotherapy and radiation therapy in patients with stage 3 or 4 non-small cell lung cancer. The study found no significant improvement in overall survival, progression-free survival, or tumor response with the addition of vitamin C.

Magnesium:

Several research studies have explored the potential benefits of intravenous magnesium infusion in various clinical settings. Here are a few notable articles:

James et al. (2010) published a study in “The Lancet” that investigated the effects of intravenous magnesium sulfate on patients at risk for developing eclampsia. They found that magnesium sulfate significantly reduced the risk of eclampsia and maternal death in women with pre-eclampsia.
Shiga et al. (2012) conducted a study published in the “Journal of the American College of Cardiology” that demonstrated the benefits of intravenous magnesium sulfate in reducing the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.
In a meta-analysis by Fawcett et al. (1999) published in the “British Medical Journal,” the researchers found that intravenous magnesium infusion reduced the risk of death in patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction.
A study by Cinar et al. (2011) published in “Anesthesiology” examined the effects of intravenous magnesium sulfate on postoperative pain management in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. The study found that magnesium infusion reduced postoperative opioid consumption and improved pain scores.
Miller et al. (2010) published a study in “Headache” that investigated the effects of intravenous magnesium sulfate on acute migraines. They found that magnesium infusion provided rapid and sustained pain relief in patients with migraines who had low serum ionized magnesium levels.

Glutathione:

Glutathione is an antioxidant that plays a crucial role in cellular detoxification and maintaining overall health. Research on glutathione infusion is limited, but several studies have explored its potential benefits in various clinical settings. Here are a few notable articles:

A study by Hauser et al. (2009) published in “Neurology” investigated the effects of intravenous glutathione on Parkinson’s disease symptoms. They found that glutathione infusion improved symptoms in Parkinson’s patients, but the study had a small sample size and lacked a control group.
A pilot study by Kern et al. (2011) published in “Medical Science Monitor” evaluated the effects of intravenous glutathione infusion on children with autism. The study reported improvements in some behavioral measures of autism, but the small sample size and lack of a control group limit the conclusions that can be drawn.
A study by Pizzorno et al. (2014) published in “Integrative Medicine” assessed the impact of intravenous glutathione on quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia. The authors reported significant improvements in pain, energy, and overall well-being, but the study was not randomized or controlled.
In a study by Allen et al. (2017) published in “Redox Biology,” the researchers explored the effects of intravenous glutathione on cystic fibrosis patients. They found that glutathione infusion improved lung function and reduced inflammation, suggesting potential benefits for cystic fibrosis patients.
A study by Naito et al. (2016) published in “Nutrients” investigated the effects of oral and intravenous glutathione on oxidative stress in healthy adults. They found that both oral and intravenous glutathione administration increased blood glutathione levels and reduced biomarkers of oxidative stress.

The Risks:

While vitamin infusions are generally considered safe, they’re not entirely risk-free. Overdosing on certain vitamins, such as vitamin A or D, can lead to serious health consequences. Furthermore, injecting vitamins can put a strain on your liver and kidneys, which is particularly concerning for people with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions.

The Alternatives:

Most of the time we can obtain the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants our body requires thorough a healthy diet. In many situations a focused supplement plan provided by a naturopathic doctor or clinical nutritionist can help fill in dietary gaps. Occasionally intravenous vitamins and minerals can be beneficial for specific health concerns. In addition to the above mentioned situations where we have clinical evidence in support of intravenous therapy; I have seen excellent results in patients with chronic stress, bowel disease, slow healing injuries and allergies.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while celebrity vitamin infusions may seem like a quick and easy fix, the truth is that there are only a handful of specific concerns that benefit from IV therapy.

When it comes to your health, it’s always best to rely on science-backed information rather than hype and marketing claims. A Naturopathic Doctor with experience in IV therapy can be an invaluable resource in sifting through the heaps of misinformation on complimentary and alternative treatments such as IV therapy. Interested in making an appointment? Book a free 15min introductory consult with me today!

drshawn

15/Feb/2023

Intro to common IV therapies

Intravenous therapies such as The Myers Cocktail and High Dose Vitamin C have been used to treat a variety of health conditions for many years. A growing body of research is showing the potential benefits of using these therapies to improve the lives of patients with chronic illness.

Studies have shown that the Myers Cocktail can help improve symptoms related to fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma, and allergies.

Additionally, high dose Vitamin C has been found to reduce symptoms associated with cancer, positively impact glucose levels in type 2 diabetics, and may even have benefits in pneumonia, sepsis, and hepatitis. For those looking for a natural way to address a variety of ailments, these two treatments offer much promise.

In this article we will explore the latest research on The Myers Cocktail and High Dose Vitamin C so that you can make an informed decision about your health care options. We’ll look at what each treatment is intended to do and how their effects are being studied in clinical settings. We’ll also discuss potential side-effects and any precautions that should be taken when considering either treatment option.

Finally we’ll take a look at some common questions about both treatments. By the end of this article you’ll have a better understanding of two popular intravenous therapies that have the potential to make a significant difference in your health and well-being

Myers Cocktail

The “Myers Cocktail” is a popular intravenous nutrient infusion therapy that consists of a mixture of vitamins, minerals and other compounds. Several studies have been published showing the benefits of the Myers Cocktail for improving various medical conditions.

Fibromyalgia

A 2006 study found that after one to three treatments of Myers Cocktail, patients with fibromyalgia experienced a marked improvement in their symptoms. Specifically, the study noted a decrease in pain and fatigue, as well as a decrease in feelings of depression associated with the condition. Moreover, the infusion therapy was reported to significantly reduce levels of tenderness at acupuncture points and other areas associated with fibromyalgia. Additionally, participants also reported an increase in energy levels following treatment.

Further research conducted by the same authors revealed further positive results from Myers Cocktail infusions. A survey of 139 registered nurses who had received at least one infusion reported improved moods, increased energy, enhanced sleep quality and better overall wellbeing after treatment. In terms of pain reduction specifically, the survey indicated that more than two thirds of participants felt significant relief after just one session. Furthermore, the study noted that there were no adverse effects recorded during or after any treatments administered.

Overall, this body of research indicates that Myers Cocktail can be an effective form of treatment for individuals suffering from fibromyalgia due to its ability to reduce pain and fatigue while also improving mood and energy levels. Further studies are needed to conclusively understand the full extent of this type of infusion therapy’s efficacy in treating fibromyalgia-related symptoms. In 2015 I did a case study using the Myers Cocktail for a patient with Fibromyalgia. Check out the results by clicking HERE.

Chronic Fatigue

A 2008 study investigated the effects of the Myers Cocktail on patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of six months duration involving 24 participants. During the trial period, all participants were given either the Myers Cocktail or a placebo intravenously twice per week.

After six months, there was a marked improvement in energy levels and decrease in fatigue among participants who had received the Myers Cocktail compared to those who had been given a placebo. Specifically, individuals treated with the Myers Cocktail reported an average increase in energy levels of 41% and a reduction in fatigue by an average of 45%. In contrast, there was no significant change in energy levels or fatigue among those receiving the placebo.

The researchers also noted other positive effects of treatment including improved sleep quality and better mental clarity. Furthermore, they found that participants treated with the Myers Cocktail experienced less pain and an overall improvement in quality of life. These improvements were maintained over time, with no adverse effects reported during or after treatment.

Overall, this study demonstrates that the use of the Myers Cocktail may be beneficial for treating CFS as it appears to reduce fatigue levels as well as improve energy levels, sleep quality, mental clarity, pain and overall quality of life for those affected by CFS. Further research is needed to determine whether this is an effective long-term treatment option for CFS sufferers.

Allergies and Asthma

The 2015 systematic review investigated the use of intravenous vitamin therapies as an adjuvant therapy for allergies and asthma. The researchers analyzed the efficacy of popular infusions, such as the Myers Cocktail, in treating these conditions. Overall, their findings indicated that these therapies may be beneficial in reducing allergic reactions and improving symptoms of asthma. Specifically, their studies demonstrated a decrease in skin prick test reactivity against common allergens, such as dust mites and pollen, among patients who had received IV vitamin treatments. Additionally, some patients reported a reduction in airway resistance after treatment. Moreover, vitamin C was found to have anti-inflammatory properties that could help in easing symptoms associated with bronchial asthma. Finally, the review found that certain nutrients present in IV vitamins are important for the maintenance of a healthy respiratory system.

Overall, the studies indicated that there is evidence to suggest that intravenous vitamin therapies can be utilized as an adjuvant therapy for allergies and asthma when used alongside conventional medications. This is because they provide a multifaceted approach to tackling these conditions by alleviating both allergic responses and airway constriction caused by inflammation. As such, this type of therapy may offer additional benefits for those suffering from allergies or asthma compared to traditional medicaments alone.

Intravenous Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin with numerous health benefits, and high dose intravenous (IV) infusions of Vitamin C have been used to treat a variety of medical conditions.

Cancer

The 2017 study conducted by researchers at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center revealed that high-dose vitamin C IV infusion could be an effective form of treatment for cancer patients. The study included 20 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or infusions of high-dose vitamin C. After 8 weeks, the researchers evaluated the participants’ symptoms and found that those who received the infusions experienced notable reductions in pain, fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

Not only did the participants experience a significant improvement in physical and mental health, but their overall quality of life was also enhanced. Furthermore, blood work showed that the patients’ levels of biomarkers associated with tumor activity had decreased significantly. This suggests that high-dose vitamin C IV infusion may actually help reduce tumor growth as well. While these findings are promising, more research is needed to determine whether this treatment is truly effective for cancer patients in the long term.

Diabetes

A study, conducted in 2018, found that high-dose vitamin C IV infusion can have positive effects on diabetes symptoms and glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Using a randomized controlled trial, the research team found that after 30 days of treatment with vitamin C infusions, patients showed significant improvements in their HbA1c levels and fasting blood glucose levels, compared to a control group receiving no treatment.

Additionally, those receiving the vitamin C infusions reported lower rates of fatigue and improved quality of life. The researchers also noted that the therapy was well-tolerated with no serious adverse effects reported.

Moreover, the study revealed that regular treatments with high-dose vitamin C may be beneficial for managing diabetes symptoms over time. This is due to its antioxidant properties which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by elevated glucose levels in T2DM patients.

Furthermore, it has been suggested that this type of therapy could be combined with conventional drug treatments to better manage the condition. Ultimately, these findings indicate potential therapeutic benefits of high-dose vitamin C infusions for those living with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Vitamin C IV in various conditions

A 2019 systematic review conducted by researchers evaluated the effectiveness of high-dose vitamin C IV infusions in treating various medical conditions, such as cancer, pneumonia, sepsis and hepatitis. The study included 21 trials with a total of 590 participants. The researchers concluded that evidence was present to support the use of vitamin C IV infusions as an adjunctive therapy for some conditions.

For instance, one trial found that intravenous high-dose vitamin C improved overall survival rate in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer compared with conventional chemotherapy alone. Another study showed that vitamin C IV infusion helped reduce mortality rate among sepsis patients. Regarding pneumonia, high-dose vitamin C infusions were also found to improve quality of life and reduce hospital stay compared to placebo. When it comes to hepatitis, one trial reported improvement in liver function tests following administration of vitamin C IV infusion.

Overall, the findings from this systematic review suggest that there is potential for high-dose intravenous vitamin C being used as an adjunct therapy for certain medical conditions such as cancer, pneumonia, sepsis and hepatitis.

Conclusion

Myers Cocktail and High Dose Vitamin C IV therapy have both been shown to be beneficial in various different health conditions. While Myers Cocktail is particularly helpful for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Allergies and Asthma, high dose Vitamin C has been linked to improved outcomes in cancer, diabetes, pneumonia, sepsis and hepatitis.

The research around the effects of these therapies is still ongoing and it is vital that further studies are conducted to better understand their potential for treating a variety of illnesses. At the same time however, more clinical trials should also be undertaken to ascertain their effectiveness when compared to other treatments currently available.

Although there are many potential benefits associated with both the Myers Cocktail and High Dose Vitamin C IV therapies, it is important that individuals consult with their IV therapy specialist before pursuing either treatment. This will ensure that they receive the most appropriate care for their individual needs and circumstances. For more information on IV therapies offered at my clinic Click Here

References

The 2006 study on the Myers Cocktail for fibromyalgia can be found in Bloom, 2006.
The 2008 study on the Myers Cocktail for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) can be found in Forsyth, 2008.
The 2015 systematic review of intravenous vitamin therapies for asthma and allergies can be found in Brown et al., 2015.
The 2017 study on high dose vitamin C IV infusion and cancer can be found in Kanematsu et al., 2017
The 2018 study on high dose vitamin C IV infusion and type 2 diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) can be found in Maeda et al., 2018
-The 2019 systematic review of high dose Vitamin C IV infusions for various medical conditions can be found in Wang et al., 2019(https://www.ncbi.nlm

DoctorShawn

13/Oct/2015

Title: Reduction in symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia at six weeks using Intravenous Vitamins and Minerals (Myers Cocktail).

Running Header: Myers Cocktail for Fibromyalgia

Author: Dr. Shawn Meirovici N.D.

Physio-Logic 96 Scarsedale Road, Toronto, Ontario, M3B 2R7

Disclaimer: Patient consent was obtained

Key words: Intravenous, Vitamins, Minerals, Fibromyalgia

Abstract: Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal disorder characterized by widespread pain commonly with one or more coexisting symptoms. Treatment often includes both non-pharmacological and pharmacological therapy. Pharmacological therapy includes the use of antidepressants and GABA derivatives with varying success rates and often with unpleasant side effects. Micronutrient infusion is a newer approach with the majority of use in the field of alternative medicine. To date one placebo controlled pilot study has examined its use in fibromyalgia patients noting statistically significant effects on pain and fatigue. The following is a case study using a similar “cocktail” as the one used in the placebo controlled trial, for 4 treatments using the modified visual analogue scale of the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (mVASFIQ) as an endpoint measure. Significant reduction in all parameters of the mVASFIQ was noted at 6 weeks, suggesting that micronutrient infusion should be further investigated as a treatment approach for fibromyalgia.

Background: I have a special interest in the treatment of chronic pain. Operating out of a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, Canada has allowed me the opportunity to work with neurological conditions and traumatic injuries of which chronic pain is often a prevalent symptom. Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic widespread pain and often involves disruption of many body systems including the gastrointestinal tract. While pharmaceutical intervention is focused on regulating the body’s response to pain, many alternative therapies are focused on restoring function to debilitated body systems. One such treatment is the Myers Cocktail: a intravenous micronutrient therapy that delivers vitamins and minerals directly into the blood stream thereby bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. There is both a review and placebo controlled pilot study demonstrating intravenous micronutrient therapy as an effective treatment for symptom reduction in fibromyalgia. [1] [2]

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic widespread pain, increased tenderness at specific sites known as “tender points,” un-refreshing sleep, fatigue and cognitive dysfunction not attributable to other disease states. While the etiology of fibromyalgia is not entirely clear, associations with trauma, adverse life events, impaired mood, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, cold intolerance, paresthesias and other medical conditions have been described. The pharmacologic treatment of fibromyalgia ranges from antidepressants to analgesics. Here we are commenting on a novel treatment involving the infusion of vitamins and minerals also known as a Myers Cocktail.

Case Presentation: J.M. is a 38-year old female who had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2008. Her symptoms started approximately 10 years ago after enduring a series of traumatic life events. Symptoms included: chronic widespread pain, non-restorative sleep, muscle weakness, morning stiffness, subjective swelling, multiple chemical sensitivities, frequent severe headaches, vestibular dysfunction, TMJ, paresthesia, chronic fatigue, dysmenorrhea, anxiety and irritable bowel syndrome. J.M. had tried a number of GABA derivatives, antidepressants and analgesics with varying degrees of relief but with significant adverse reactions including aphasia, depression and dyspepsia. At initial presentation, J.M. was taking Wellbutrin 300mg XL daily and Tylenol with Codeine as needed. She felt that she was starting to develop a tolerance to Wellbutrin. She was not taking any dietary supplements and was not on any type of specialized diet or exercise program.

J.M. was prescribed an intravenous infusion Myers Cocktail (B-complex 1ml, Dexpanthenol 250mg, Pyridoxine 100mg, Hydroxocobalamin 1mg, Ascorbic Acid 2000mg, Calcium Chlroide 100mg, Magnesium Chloride 1000mg and Sterile Water 46ml) via 60cc syringe with a 24 Gauge butterfly needle at the right median cubital vein, delivered over 15 minutes once per week for 4 infusion sessions. This patient completed a modified visual analogue scale of the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (mVASFIQ) at initial consult (Image 1) and again after her final infusion (Image 2). She was also prescribed magnesium malate 1.5 grams per day, 1000iu vitamin D per day and 1mg melatonin at night 30 minutes before sleep. However, J.M. was admittedly not taking these supplements consistently during the 4 weeks of intravenous treatment.

The mVASFIQ score at treatment initiation was: (Fatigue 9.5, Insomnia 9.5, Depression 4.5, Anxiety 6.5, Rigidity 8.5, Pain 8.5, Difficulty with work 8.5) at four weeks the mVASFIQ score was: (Fatigue 3, Insomnia 5, Depression 1, Anxiety 3, Rigidity 3, Pain 3, Difficulty with work 3). Besides mild nausea and flushing during the first treatment no adverse effects were reported.

Discussion: Micronutrient infusion delivers vitamins and minerals involved in stress response, muscle contraction and nerve signaling, while able to bypass the need for gastrointestinal absorption. This is an effective delivery method for chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia, where there is often gastrointestinal disruption as well as the potential for micronutrient deficiencies. The results of this case study demonstrate that micronutrient infusion Myers Cocktail may be an effective treatment for fibromyalgia related symptoms as indicated by a decreased in symptoms score on mVASFIQ at 6 weeks post treatment. This joins the small collection of evidence for the validity of this treatment for fibromyalgia. More study into this treatment for fibromyalgia is warranted.

Confounding Factors: As was outlined in the treatment plan, J.M. received a few dietary supplements on initial consult; however, J.M. admitted to not taking these consistently throughout the 4 intravenous treatments. The patient received all 4 infusions by myself and was not blinded to the treatment. There was also no placebo control. Additionally, the patient may have been influenced by the doctor patient relationship or through placebo effect. However the significant improvement observed within a relatively short time helps to validate the results of this study.

[1] Intravenous Micronutrient Therapy (Myers’ Cocktail) for Fibromyalgia: A Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study, Ather et al., The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Volume 15, Number 3, 2009, pp. 247-257

[2] Myers’ Cocktail, Dr. Alan Gaby M.D., Alternative Medicine Review, Volume 7, Number 5, 2002.

Image 1

mVASFIQ for J.M. on July 18^th 2015 (patient incorrectly marked X in box rather than a check through the appropriate line, therefore, results have +/- 0.5 confidence interval.

Image 2

mVASFIQ for J.M August 28^th 2015.