What is the Beyonce Injection? An In-Depth Look at IV Vitamin Therapy

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

The market for intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy is a multi-billion dollar industry, popularized by celebrities and wellness influencers [1.6.5]. So, what is the Beyonce injection? It's a colloquial term for an IV drip, most often containing glutathione, an antioxidant associated with skin brightening [1.2.3, 1.2.4].

Quick Summary

The 'Beyonce injection' is not an official product but a nickname for IV vitamin drips containing glutathione and other nutrients. These treatments are popular for their supposed anti-aging, energy-boosting, and skin-lightening effects.

Key Points

Not a Real Product: The 'Beyonce injection' is a colloquial name for IV vitamin drips, often containing glutathione, not an official medical product [1.2.3].
Key Ingredient is Glutathione: Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant associated with skin brightening and detoxification, making it a popular component [1.2.5, 1.5.1].
Celebrity Popularized: The trend has been popularized by celebrities using IV therapy for energy boosts, immune support, and aesthetic benefits [1.6.1, 1.6.5].
Unproven Benefits: While IV delivery offers 100% nutrient absorption, there is limited scientific evidence to support the wellness claims for healthy individuals [1.4.4, 1.8.1].
Significant Risks Involved: IV therapy carries risks like infection, vitamin toxicity, vein damage, and electrolyte imbalances, and is not regulated by the FDA for wellness use [1.4.3, 1.8.3].
High Cost: Treatments are expensive, with sessions typically costing between $150 and $500, and are generally not covered by insurance [1.7.2, 1.7.3].
Consult a Doctor: Due to the potential health risks, it's crucial to consult a medical doctor before undergoing elective IV vitamin therapy [1.4.5].

The Celebrity Trend: What is the Beyonce Injection?

The term "Beyonce injection" refers to a type of intravenous (IV) vitamin therapy, not a specific, officially named product [1.2.3]. It gained popularity as a nickname for IV drips containing glutathione, a powerful antioxidant [1.2.2, 1.2.4]. These treatments are part of a broader wellness trend embraced by celebrities like Rihanna, Chrissy Teigen, and Kendall Jenner, who use IV therapy for benefits ranging from energy boosts to enhanced skin health [1.6.1, 1.6.5]. The allure is the direct delivery of vitamins and minerals into the bloodstream, which allows for faster and more complete absorption than oral supplements [1.6.2, 1.7.3].

Deconstructing the Drip: Common Ingredients

While the exact formula can vary, these IV "cocktails" are typically built around a sterile saline solution and customized with various nutrients [1.3.3, 1.3.6].

Glutathione: Often called the "master antioxidant," this is the key ingredient associated with the "Beyonce injection" [1.5.4]. Composed of three amino acids, it helps detoxify the liver and protect cells from oxidative stress [1.3.5, 1.5.1]. Its popularity stems from its purported ability to brighten skin and create a more even complexion by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color [1.2.5, 1.5.4].
Vitamin B Complex: B vitamins, especially B12, are crucial for energy metabolism [1.3.2]. They are a common addition for people seeking to combat fatigue and boost brain function [1.3.3]. Celebrities often use B12 shots or IVs to maintain energy during demanding schedules [1.6.1, 1.6.3].
Vitamin C: A well-known antioxidant that supports the immune system and is essential for collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity [1.3.2, 1.3.3].
Magnesium: This mineral plays a role in muscle relaxation, nerve function, and can help alleviate stress and migraines [1.3.2, 1.3.4].
Other Nutrients: Depending on the desired effect, drips can also include zinc for immune support, calcium for bone health, or other amino acids to aid in muscle recovery [1.3.1, 1.3.5].

Claimed Benefits vs. Scientific Reality

IV therapy clinics and medspas market these drips with a wide array of health claims. Proponents suggest they can boost immunity, increase energy levels, cure hangovers, reduce signs of aging, and improve overall wellness [1.3.1, 1.6.2]. The primary argument for IV delivery is its 100% bioavailability, meaning all nutrients enter the bloodstream directly, whereas oral supplements have a much lower absorption rate (as low as 20-50%) [1.7.3].

However, health experts urge caution, noting a lack of robust scientific evidence to support many of these claims for healthy individuals [1.4.4, 1.8.1]. While IV nutrition is a valid medical treatment for people with malabsorption issues, certain illnesses, or severe nutrient deficiencies, its use as an elective wellness treatment is not FDA-approved [1.3.4, 1.8.2]. For most people, a balanced diet provides sufficient vitamins and minerals [1.8.2].

Comparison Table: IV Therapy vs. Oral Supplements


Feature	IV Vitamin Therapy	Oral Supplements
Absorption Rate	100% direct to bloodstream [1.7.3]	20-50%, varies by nutrient and individual [1.7.3]
Speed of Effect	Almost immediate to within a few hours [1.3.4]	Slower, requires digestion
Cost	High ($150 - $500+ per session) [1.7.5]	Low ($0.50 - $2.00 per day) [1.7.3]
Convenience	Requires a trained professional and time for infusion (30-90 mins) [1.7.3]	Can be taken anywhere, anytime
Regulation	Not FDA-approved for wellness; clinics may have varying standards [1.8.1, 1.8.3]	Regulated by the FDA as food products
Best Use Case	Medically necessary nutrient delivery, severe dehydration, immediate effect desired [1.3.4]	Daily maintenance of nutrient levels [1.7.3]

Significant Risks and Safety Concerns

Despite being marketed as a simple wellness procedure, IV therapy is a medical process with real risks. These treatments are not regulated by the FDA, and the safety and sanitation of "drip bars" can vary [1.8.3, 1.8.4].

Potential side effects and complications include:

Infection: The most significant risk is a bloodstream infection if non-sterile equipment or improper techniques are used [1.4.3, 1.4.5]. The FDA has warned about unsanitary conditions at some clinics [1.4.6].
Vein Damage and Irritation: Puncturing a vein can cause pain, bruising, inflammation (phlebitis), or scarring [1.4.3, 1.4.5].
Vitamin Toxicity: While excess water-soluble vitamins (like B and C) are usually flushed out by the body, receiving excessively high doses intravenously can strain the kidneys and, in some cases, cause issues like kidney stones (from Vitamin C) or nerve damage (from B6) [1.4.3, 1.9.5]. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) can be toxic in high amounts [1.9.5].
Electrolyte Imbalance: Improperly administered fluids can disrupt the body's delicate balance of minerals like potassium and magnesium, potentially affecting heart rhythm and blood pressure. This is especially dangerous for people with kidney or heart disease [1.4.3, 1.4.5].
Allergic Reactions: Though rare, individuals can have allergic reactions to components in the drip, ranging from a mild rash to a life-threatening anaphylactic shock [1.4.3].

Celebrity experiences highlight these risks; for instance, Kendall Jenner was reportedly hospitalized in 2018 after a bad reaction to a vitamin IV drip [1.9.1].

Conclusion

The "Beyonce injection" is a marketing term for IV vitamin therapy, most notably drips containing the antioxidant glutathione. This trend is fueled by celebrity endorsements and claims of rapid health and beauty benefits. While IV delivery ensures complete nutrient absorption, the scientific evidence supporting its use for general wellness in healthy people is limited [1.8.2]. Furthermore, the procedure carries significant risks, including infection, vitamin toxicity, and vein damage, and is not regulated by the FDA for these purposes [1.8.1, 1.8.3]. Anyone considering this treatment should consult a qualified medical doctor to discuss the potential benefits and dangers, especially individuals with pre-existing conditions like heart or kidney disease [1.4.5].

For more information on the risks and benefits, you can refer to guidance from health institutions like the Mayo Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

The term typically refers to an IV drip containing glutathione, a potent antioxidant. These drips also often include Vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, magnesium, and other minerals mixed into a sterile saline solution [1.2.3, 1.3.1].

The key ingredient, glutathione, is claimed to lighten skin by inhibiting the production of melanin [1.2.5, 1.5.4]. While some clinics promote this effect, results can vary, and the primary role of glutathione is as a cellular antioxidant [1.5.1].

The cost varies widely depending on the ingredients and location, but a single session typically ranges from $150 to over $500. Specialized drips, like those containing NAD+, can cost even more [1.7.2, 1.7.5].

There are significant risks, including infection from improper needle use, vein damage, vitamin toxicity, and electrolyte imbalances. These treatments should only be administered by licensed medical professionals [1.4.3, 1.4.5]. People with kidney or heart conditions should avoid them [1.7.3].

No, IV vitamin drips for wellness purposes are not evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Many clinics operate in a largely unregulated space [1.8.1, 1.8.3].

The immediate effects, like hydration, can be felt quickly. The longevity of other effects, such as increased energy or brighter skin, can vary from a few days to several weeks, and may require regular sessions to maintain [1.5.2, 1.5.4].

There is typically a brief, slight discomfort or pinch when the needle is inserted into the vein. Some people may experience minor bruising or soreness at the injection site afterward [1.3.6, 1.4.3].