The Myers Cocktail is arguably the most well-known IV vitamin therapy in the world. Developed by Baltimore physician Dr. John Myers in the 1970s and later refined by Dr. Alan Gaby, this blend of vitamins and minerals has been used to treat everything from fatigue and migraines to fibromyalgia and respiratory infections.
Magnesium sulfate is a key ingredient in Myers Cocktail formulations
The History of Myers Cocktail
Dr. John Myers (1970s)
Dr. John Myers, a Baltimore physician, began treating patients with intravenous vitamins and minerals in the 1970s. He developed a proprietary formula that he used successfully for decades until his death in 1984.
Dr. Alan Gaby (1980s-Present)
After Dr. Myers' death, many of his patients sought similar treatment. Dr. Alan Gaby began treating them and, through experimentation, developed the "modified Myers' cocktail" that is widely used today.
Dr. Gaby documented positive results in hundreds of patients over many years and published his findings, bringing the Myers Cocktail into mainstream integrative medicine.
Myers Cocktail Ingredients: A Deep Dive
Each ingredient in the Myers Cocktail serves specific physiological functions. Here's what's in a typical formulation and why:
Magnesium Chloride
Perhaps the most therapeutically significant component. Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.
Key Functions:
- • Muscle relaxation and cramp prevention
- • Nervous system regulation
- • Energy production (ATP synthesis)
- • Blood pressure regulation
Research Notes:
IV magnesium has been shown to ameliorate pain in multiple conditions. Many fibromyalgia patients are found to be deficient in serum magnesium.
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
A powerful antioxidant and immune system modulator. IV administration achieves blood levels impossible through oral intake.
Key Functions:
- • Immune system enhancement
- • Collagen synthesis support
- • Antioxidant protection
- • Iron absorption improvement
IV Advantage:
IV administration achieves serum concentrations 10x higher than oral supplementation, bypassing intestinal absorption limits.
B-Complex Vitamins
Essential water-soluble vitamins that work synergistically for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
| Vitamin | Also Known As | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| B1 | Thiamine | Carbohydrate metabolism, nerve function |
| B2 | Riboflavin | Energy production, cellular function |
| B3 | Niacin | DNA repair, metabolism |
| B5 | Dexpanthenol | Hormone synthesis, energy |
| B6 | Pyridoxine | Immune function, neurotransmitters |
| B12 | Hydroxocobalamin | Red blood cells, nerve health, energy |
Calcium Gluconate
Essential mineral for muscle function, nerve transmission, and bone health.
Key Functions:
- • Muscle contraction regulation
- • Nerve signal transmission
- • Heart rhythm maintenance
- • Blood clotting support
Note:
Works synergistically with magnesium. The ratio between these two minerals is carefully balanced in the Myers formulation.
What Does the Research Say?
Clinical Evidence Summary
The Myers Cocktail has been used by integrative medicine physicians for decades, with documented benefits for various conditions. However, it's important to understand the current state of research:
- •Dr. Alan Gaby documented positive outcomes in hundreds of patients over many years
- •A placebo-controlled pilot study showed therapeutic efficacy for fibromyalgia
- •Large-scale, double-blind clinical trials are still limited
- •Individual ingredients have substantial research supporting their benefits
Fibromyalgia Study
A placebo-controlled pilot study evaluated IVMT (Intravenous Micronutrient Therapy) for fibromyalgia. Results suggested therapeutic efficacy, leading to continued research in this area. Much of the benefit may be derived from the magnesium content.
Bioavailability Advantage
Scientific studies demonstrate that IV administration achieves serum concentrations ten times higher than oral supplementation. This bypasses digestive limitations and delivers nutrients directly to cells.
Conditions Myers Cocktail May Help
Based on clinical experience documented by Dr. Gaby and other practitioners, the Myers Cocktail has been found effective against:
Energy & Fatigue
- • Chronic fatigue syndrome
- • General fatigue
- • Jet lag recovery
Pain & Tension
- • Fibromyalgia
- • Migraines
- • Acute muscle spasms
Respiratory
- • Acute asthma attacks
- • Upper respiratory infections
- • Chronic sinusitis
Allergies
- • Seasonal allergic rhinitis
- • Environmental sensitivities
Cardiovascular
- • Cardiovascular support
- • Blood pressure regulation
Recovery
- • Hangover recovery
- • Athletic performance
- • Post-illness recovery
What to Expect During Treatment
Quick Health Assessment
Our nurse reviews your health history and current concerns to ensure the Myers Cocktail is appropriate for you.
IV Insertion
A small IV catheter is placed in your arm. Most people report minimal discomfort comparable to a standard blood draw.
20 Minute Infusion
The Myers Cocktail is infused slowly. You may feel warmth, taste vitamins, or feel relaxed as magnesium enters your system.
Immediate Post-Treatment
Many people report feeling more energized and clear-headed immediately after. You can resume normal activities right away.
Common Sensations During Infusion
Warmth: Magnesium causes a warming sensation — completely normal
Vitamin taste: Some people taste B vitamins briefly
Relaxation: Magnesium has a natural calming effect
Mild flushing: Temporary and subsides quickly
Myers Cocktail vs. Other IV Therapies
| IV Therapy | Primary Purpose | Key Ingredients | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myers Cocktail | Overall wellness, energy, immunity | Mg, Ca, B-vitamins, Vitamin C | 20-25 min |
| Hangover Recovery | Rapid rehydration, symptom relief | Saline, B-vitamins, anti-nausea | 20-25 min |
| NAD+ | Cellular energy, anti-aging | NAD+ coenzyme | 2-4 hours |
| High-Dose Vitamin C | Immune support, antioxidant | Vitamin C (15-50g) | 1-2 hours |
| Glutathione | Detox, skin brightening | Glutathione | 15-30 min |
The Myers Cocktail is often considered the "foundation" IV therapy — a balanced blend suitable for most people seeking general wellness support.
Safety & Tolerability
Since the Myers Cocktail consists of vitamins and minerals naturally found in food, it tends to be well tolerated by most patients. The ingredients are water-soluble, meaning excess amounts are typically excreted by the body.
Generally Safe For
- ✓ Most healthy adults
- ✓ Those with nutrient deficiencies
- ✓ People with absorption issues
- ✓ Athletes and active individuals
- ✓ Travelers needing recovery
Use Caution If
- • Kidney disease or impairment
- • Heart conditions (magnesium affects rhythm)
- • Taking blood pressure medications
- • G6PD deficiency (for high-dose vitamin C)
- • Pregnancy (consult physician first)
Experience the Myers Cocktail in Bali
Our licensed medical team delivers Myers Cocktail IV therapy directly to your villa, hotel, or accommodation anywhere in Bali. Fast, professional, 24/7.
Book Myers Cocktail Now