Download Top 25 Myers Cocktail Components and Protocols worksheet Download our free reference worksheet covering the core ingredients, dosages, and protocol variations for the Myers cocktail IV infusion. Download worksheet Key Takeaways The Myers cocktail protocol combines magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, and vitamin C delivered intravenously for rapid nutrient absorption. Standard infusion takes 30 to 45 minutes with proper patient screening and monitoring throughout the session. Common variations include immune boost, energy, athletic recovery, anti-ageing, and migraine-specific formulations. IV therapy clinics can increase revenue by building tiered menus with packages and membership models around the Myers cocktail. Always screen patients for contraindications including renal impairment and G6PD deficiency before administering any IV protocol. The Myers cocktail protocol is one of the most widely administered IV vitamin infusions in clinical practice today. Originally developed by Dr John Myers in the 1960s at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, this intravenous nutrient therapy has become a cornerstone of integrative and functional medicine. For IV therapy clinic owners, understanding the precise formulation, administration steps, and clinical variations is essential for delivering safe, effective treatments.In this guide, you will find a complete breakdown of the Myers cocktail protocol, including ingredients, dosages, administration steps, popular variations, patient screening requirements, and strategies for building a profitable IV therapy menu.What Is the Myers Cocktail Protocol?The Myers cocktail protocol is an intravenous infusion that delivers a combination of vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream. Dr John Myers pioneered this approach during his practice in Baltimore, where he used IV nutrient therapy to treat patients with chronic conditions including asthma, migraines, fatigue, and fibromyalgia.After Dr Myers passed away in 1984, Dr Alan Gaby continued and refined the formulation. In a landmark paper published in Alternative Medicine Review, Gaby (2002) documented treating over 1,000 patients with the modified Myers cocktail protocol and reported clinical improvements across a range of conditions.The key advantage of IV delivery is bioavailability. When nutrients pass through the gastrointestinal tract, absorption rates vary between 10% and 80% depending on the nutrient and individual factors. However, IV administration achieves close to 100% bioavailability because it bypasses the digestive system entirely. As a result, serum nutrient levels can reach concentrations that are simply not achievable through oral supplementation. Pro Tip When explaining the Myers cocktail protocol to patients, focus on the bioavailability advantage. Most clients understand the concept of ‘direct delivery’ and it helps justify the investment compared to over-the-counter supplements. Core Ingredients and Their RolesUnderstanding each ingredient in the Myers cocktail protocol helps you explain the treatment to patients and customise formulations for specific needs. The standard formulation includes the following components.Magnesium Chloride (1-2g)Magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. In the Myers cocktail protocol, magnesium chloride supports muscle relaxation, reduces migraine frequency, and helps regulate blood pressure. Furthermore, many patients present with subclinical magnesium deficiency, making this component particularly valuable.Calcium Gluconate (1-2g)Calcium supports nerve conduction, muscle contraction, and bone health. In addition, calcium gluconate is the preferred form for IV administration because it is less irritating to veins than calcium chloride. Practitioners should monitor the infusion rate carefully, as rapid calcium delivery can cause cardiac arrhythmias.B-Complex VitaminsThe B-vitamin group includes thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacinamide (B3), dexpanthenol (B5), and pyridoxine (B6). Together, these vitamins support energy metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and cellular repair. For example, thiamine is critical for converting carbohydrates into ATP, while pyridoxine supports immune function and mood regulation.Hydroxocobalamin (Vitamin B12) – 1mgVitamin B12 supports red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Similarly, hydroxocobalamin is preferred over cyanocobalamin in IV protocols because the body retains it longer and it does not require hepatic conversion.Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – 1-5gVitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function, collagen synthesis, and iron absorption. In the standard Myers cocktail protocol, doses typically range from 1 to 5 grams. Higher doses (10-25g) are used in modified protocols but require G6PD screening beforehand.Standard Administration ProtocolConsistent, safe administration is the foundation of any successful IV therapy clinic. Follow these steps for every Myers cocktail protocol session.Patient Screening and IntakeBefore the first infusion, complete a thorough medical history review. Use a standardised IV therapy intake form that captures allergies, current medications, kidney function, and cardiac history. In most cases, basic blood work including a metabolic panel and G6PD test is recommended for new patients receiving vitamin C doses above 5 grams.Preparation and IV AccessPrepare the Myers cocktail protocol solution under aseptic conditions. Draw up each component into a syringe or mix into a 250ml bag of normal saline (0.9% NaCl). Establish IV access using an 18-22 gauge catheter, typically in the antecubital fossa. Verify patency with a saline flush before starting the infusion.Infusion Rate and MonitoringThe standard infusion runs over 30 to 45 minutes. Consequently, start at a slow rate (1-2ml per minute) for the first 5 minutes to assess tolerance, then increase to the target rate. Monitor the patient for signs of magnesium-related flushing, warmth, or hypotension. Keep the patient seated or reclined throughout the session. Pro Tip Train staff to check blood pressure before, during, and after every Myers cocktail infusion. Magnesium can lower blood pressure, and catching a dip early prevents complications and builds patient confidence. Post-Infusion ObservationAfter the infusion completes, observe the patient for 10 to 15 minutes. Document the session details in the patient record, including total volume infused, any adverse reactions, and the patient's subjective response. This documentation is essential for compliance and continuity of care.Common Myers Cocktail VariationsOne of the strengths of the Myers cocktail protocol is its flexibility. As a result, clinics can offer multiple variations to address different patient needs and build a diverse service menu.Modified Myers (High-Dose Vitamin C)This variation increases the vitamin C dose to 5-10 grams and often includes a glutathione push at the end of the infusion. It is popular among patients seeking immune support during cold and flu season. However, always screen for G6PD deficiency before administering high-dose vitamin C.Immune Boost ProtocolBuilding on the standard Myers cocktail protocol, the immune boost adds zinc sulphate (10mg), selenium (200mcg), and additional vitamin C. This formulation targets patients recovering from illness or those looking to strengthen their immune response before travel.Energy ProtocolThe energy variation includes extra B12 (2mg), additional B5 (500mg), and taurine (1g). In addition, some practitioners add CoQ10 to support mitochondrial function. This is particularly popular among professionals experiencing chronic fatigue or burnout.Athletic Recovery ProtocolFor athletes and active individuals, this variation adds branched-chain amino acids, extra magnesium (2g), and a glutathione push. The focus is on reducing inflammation, supporting muscle repair, and replenishing electrolytes lost during intense exercise.Anti-Ageing ProtocolThis premium variation adds NAD+ (250-500mg), glutathione (600-2000mg), and biotin (1mg) to the base Myers cocktail protocol. NAD+ supports cellular repair and energy production at the mitochondrial level, making it a high-value addition to any wellness menu.Migraine ProtocolPatients with chronic migraines often respond well to a modified formulation featuring high-dose magnesium (2g), riboflavin (B2), and pyridoxine (B6) in a 500ml normal saline base. Research by Ali et al. (2009) found that the magnesium component of IV micronutrient therapy showed particular promise for pain-related conditions. “Since introducing a structured Myers cocktail protocol at our clinic, we have seen a significant uptake in repeat bookings. Patients appreciate the consistency and transparency of our IV therapy menu, and the streamlined documentation in Pabau saves our team considerable time between sessions.” Sarah Lomas CEO, Sarah Lomas Patient Screening and ContraindicationsPatient safety must come first in any Myers cocktail protocol. Thorough screening prevents adverse events and protects your clinic from liability.Who Benefits MostThe Myers cocktail protocol is commonly used for patients experiencing chronic fatigue, frequent migraines, fibromyalgia, seasonal allergies, athletic recovery needs, and general wellness optimisation. In most cases, patients who have tried oral supplementation without adequate results are ideal candidates for IV therapy.Contraindications to Be Aware OfSeveral conditions require caution or represent absolute contraindications. These include: Renal impairment – impaired kidneys cannot clear excess magnesium and other minerals safely G6PD deficiency – high-dose vitamin C can trigger haemolytic anaemia in these patients Congestive heart failure – fluid overload risk with IV administration Severe hypotension – magnesium may further lower blood pressure Known allergies – to any component in the formulation Informed Consent and DocumentationBefore every Myers cocktail protocol session, obtain written informed consent using a standardised digital form. The consent should outline the ingredients, potential benefits, risks, and alternatives. Furthermore, document each session thoroughly to maintain compliance and support continuity of care. Pro Tip Create a reusable consent template specific to your Myers cocktail protocol that auto-populates patient details. This saves 5 to 10 minutes per appointment and ensures nothing gets missed during busy clinic days. Building Your IV Therapy MenuA well-structured IV therapy menu turns the Myers cocktail protocol from a single treatment into a revenue-generating service line.Pricing StrategiesMost clinics price the standard Myers cocktail between £150 and £300 per session, depending on location and market positioning. Premium variations with add-ons like NAD+ or glutathione command higher prices, often £350 to £500. Consider tiered pricing that rewards commitment and repeat visits.Packages and MembershipsOffer packages and bundles that encourage regular treatments. For example, a four-session Myers cocktail protocol package at a 15% discount incentivises upfront commitment. Similarly, membership programmes with one included infusion per month create predictable recurring revenue.Staff Training and ComplianceEnsure all practitioners administering IV therapy hold appropriate qualifications and are trained in emergency protocols including anaphylaxis management. In addition, regular competency assessments and documentation audits protect both patients and your practice.Marketing Your Myers Cocktail ProtocolEffective IV therapy marketing highlights the science behind the formulation, patient outcomes, and the clinic experience. Use before-and-after energy assessments, patient testimonials, and educational content to build trust and attract new clients. IV vitamin therapy market growth – Source: Grand View Research, 2024 As the chart above shows, the IV vitamin therapy market continues to grow rapidly. Clinics that establish a strong Myers cocktail protocol now are well positioned to capture this expanding demand. Expert Picks Starting an IV therapy clinic from scratch? Read our guide on how to open an IV therapy clinic covering licensing, setup, and equipment essentials. Want to grow your client base? Explore 9 proven IV therapy marketing strategies to attract more patients to your drip bar. Thinking about going mobile? Learn how to start a mobile IV therapy business and bring the Myers cocktail protocol directly to your clients. Frequently Asked Questions What is in a standard Myers cocktail? A standard Myers cocktail contains magnesium chloride, calcium gluconate, B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6), hydroxocobalamin (B12), and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) mixed in normal saline. Dosages vary by practitioner, but the formulation typically uses 1-2g magnesium, 1-2g calcium, and 1-5g vitamin C. How long does a Myers cocktail infusion take? A typical Myers cocktail infusion takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the total volume and the patient’s tolerance. The practitioner starts at a slow rate and increases gradually. A 10 to 15 minute observation period follows the infusion. How often should patients receive a Myers cocktail? Most practitioners recommend weekly or fortnightly sessions initially, then transition to monthly maintenance infusions. The frequency depends on the patient’s condition, treatment goals, and clinical response. Chronic conditions may benefit from more frequent sessions. What are the side effects of a Myers cocktail? Common side effects include warmth or flushing from magnesium, a metallic taste, and mild lightheadedness. These are typically transient and resolve within minutes. Serious adverse events are rare but can include allergic reactions, vein irritation, or blood pressure changes. Who should not receive a Myers cocktail? Patients with renal impairment, G6PD deficiency, congestive heart failure, severe hypotension, or known allergies to any ingredient should not receive a Myers cocktail without specialist review. Always complete a thorough screening and obtain informed consent before the first session. How much does a Myers cocktail cost? Prices typically range from £150 to £300 for a standard Myers cocktail, depending on location and clinic positioning. Premium variations with add-ons like NAD+ or glutathione can cost £350 to £500. Many clinics offer package discounts for multiple sessions. Is the Myers cocktail protocol evidence-based? The Myers cocktail has a growing body of clinical evidence. A key study by Gaby (2002) documented positive outcomes across over 1,000 patients. A placebo-controlled trial by Ali et al. (2009) showed benefits for fibromyalgia. However, more large-scale randomised trials are needed to establish definitive clinical guidelines.
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