In recent years, IV therapy has surged in popularity in Massachusetts, catering to a wide range of clients seeking health benefits, from post-party recovery to enhanced wellness.
Whether at specialized drip bars or through mobile services, registered nurses provide hydration infusions, vitamin shots, and unique IV treatments focused on everything from bolstering immunity to promoting anti-aging effects.
“Initially, our clients were mostly seeking relief from hangovers,” shared Courtney Ferreira, a registered nurse at IV League. “Now, we’re seeing a growing number of individuals coming in for overall wellness, aiming to bolster their health and immune systems.”
With approximately seven years of experience at IV League, Ferreira has observed the rising trend in wellness-focused treatments. The services offered vary from basic hydration solutions to premium NAD drips.
“Prices currently range from $79 for a simple hydration bag that includes a B12 shot to $500 for our advanced NAD drips,” Ferreira noted.
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Clients have varying goals: some seek a quick energy boost, while others are drawn in by the potential skin benefits. Ferreira confirmed, “Skin health is particularly popular right now. Treatments like glutathione and high-dose vitamin C help combat free radicals, which contribute to aging.”
The trend has also expanded to mobile services.
Registered nurse Alex Dold, founder of the mobile IV service Miss Drip, visits clients at their homes or workplaces to provide treatments amid their hectic lives.
During a recent session, Dold met with Hailey Hoffman, owner of the Studio78 pilates studio, before her bachelorette weekend in Newport, Rhode Island.
“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed that drinks affect me more,” Hoffman admitted. She is a frequent IV therapy client, particularly to combat fatigue from her active teaching schedule. “After teaching many heated classes, I often felt worn out.”
Dold emphasizes that safety is paramount. “In Massachusetts, we must adhere to strict medical standards and operate under physician supervision,” he explained. “While nurses can administer IV infusions, we closely collaborate with a medical director for prescription oversight.”
Prior to treatment, clients are required to fill out medical screening forms, as certain heart and kidney conditions may make them ineligible for IV therapy.
“We gather health histories from everyone who visits,” Ferreira stated. She also advised potential clients to thoroughly research providers before making bookings. “Don’t choose a service solely based on cost; check online reviews and services available.”
Dr. Ali Raja, executive vice chair of emergency medicine at Mass General Brigham, noted that scientific evidence supporting many wellness claims associated with IV therapy is scant for otherwise healthy individuals. “If you’re not vitamin deficient or suffering from a chronic illness, high doses of vitamins typically do not provide additional benefits,” he warned.
While hydration can improve how one feels, Dr. Raja pointed out that differentiating the uplifting effects of hydration from the benefits of vitamins can be challenging. “It’s often tough to determine whether your improved state is due to hydration alone or the vitamins, which may not be effective for everyone.”
Despite the debate, many clients report noticeable improvements following treatment, which is likely a contributing factor to the ongoing popularity of IV therapy.
