Woman hospitalized after severe reaction to IV drip therapy: Is it safe? Here's what experts say about the wellness trend

In a recent instance going viral across the globe, a Dubai woman had to be rushed to the hospital due to severe reactions to her first and only IV drip therapy. And now, experts have begun sharing how harmful it can be to the body.

Valeriya Thores, a woman residing in Dubai, had to be rushed to the hospital on December 14th, 2024, as she was experiencing severe convulsions, vomiting and breathlessness, all a "terrifying" reaction to the first IV (intravenous) drip therapy. “I couldn’t breathe, couldn’t open my eyes, and developed a body rash. To this day, I suffer from insomnia due to the trauma,” said the 31-year-old Scottish expat.

Thores had received a NAD+ IV drip at a clinic with no prior medical tests being conducted. "They never even gave me a consent form at the start. It was only handed to me after the three-hour drip was over," she told a Dubai-based news website, Khaleej Times.

However, the reality of the treatment hit her afterwards when her hands became ice cold, she started having convulsions, threw up multiple times and struggled to breathe. A hospital report revealed that she was facing a "severe allergic reaction" to the drip.

What is IV drip therapy?
IV drip therapy, also known as intravenous therapy, is going viral everywhere! It involves delivering fluids and nutrients directly to the bloodstream through a vein rather than bypassing it through the digestive system. It is widely marketed as a solution for dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, glowing skin and overall wellness.

How popular is IV drip therapy?
Well, as per a report by Horizon Grand View Research, UAE's IV hydration therapy market is expected to reach $22.9M by 2030. It is mostly in demand for energy and skin treatments.

Nazia Khan, a mindset, fitness and nutrition coach shared with Khaleej Times that she had been using the therapy as a part of her wellness routine for years. “I first started using IV drip therapy back in London, where I’m from and continued in Ibiza before moving to Dubai. I use it mainly for hydration, energy, and immune support,” she said.

What do the doctors say?
While IV drip therapy may be popular amongst influencers and skincare enthusiasts, the same is not the case with doctors. Swapna Mary John, a clinical dietitian at the International Modern Hospital Dubai, urged caution against the therapy in an interview with Khaleej Times and stated, “IV drips can help with dehydration, deficiencies, and certain illnesses, but their use for wellness and beauty is more trend-driven than science-backed.”
“IV therapy is typically used when rapid hydration or nutrient replenishment is needed, such as in cases of severe dehydration or deficiencies. But for general wellness, a balanced diet and proper hydration usually provide similar benefits — without the risks,” she added.

Is IV drip therapy safe for everyone?
As per Mary John, individuals with kidney disease, heart problems or diabetes should be cautious of the therapy as excessive IV fluids or nutrients can cause complications. Overuse of the therapy can also lead to vein irritation, infections or electrolyte imbalances.

Dr Mayur Bhobe, a specialist dermatologist at CosmeSurge Hospital shared that "Prolonged use could reduce the body's natural ability to absorb nutrients and mask underlying health issues that need proper medical attention."

Additionally, constant reliance on the therapy may make you addicted to it physically and psychologically, thus you are reducing your own efforts towards a healthy lifestyle.

Even if you want to try out the IV drip therapy, consult a professional, be aware of your medications or allergies if any, and try it for the trend of it rather than as a substitution of eating, drinking and living healthy.