Vitamin infusions — also known as IV vitamin therapy or the Myers Cocktail — deliver high concentrations of vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream via an infusion. People often ask about them for persistent fatigue or fibromyalgia. The evidence is limited: in the only study with a placebo group (in fibromyalgia), both groups improved, with and without vitamins.
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Availability: in Dordrecht (Overkampweg) we offer infusions all week. In Rotterdam (Cor Kieboomplein) on Thursday, when Dr. Björn Mulder and Dr. Claudia Mulder are present.
How does it work?
After intake and checking your medical history by Dr. Björn Mulder or Dr. Claudia Mulder, the doctor places an IV needle in a vein (often in the elbow fold). The infusion runs slowly. The standard dosage contains 5-25 g vitamin C, 2-5 ml magnesium chloride 20%, 1-3 ml calcium gluconate 10%, B complex (1-2 ml) and 1000 mcg hydroxocobalamin.
Intravenous administration bypasses the intestine — absorption is 95-100% vs 10-30% with oral supplementation.
Availability: in Dordrecht, and on Thursdays in Rotterdam — always with at least one of the doctors (Björn or Claudia Mulder) on site. Book in advance, by phone or WhatsApp.
What can you expect?
During the infusion you often feel a feeling of warmth due to the magnesium and slight metallic taste in the mouth due to B vitamins — normal and harmless. You sit or lie comfortably. The attending physician (Björn or Claudia Mulder) remains involved during the entire infusion.
An increase in energy is sometimes reported within hours; in others only after several sessions or not at all. It is good to know in advance that the effect varies greatly.
Scientific substantiation
Klinische evidence voor de Myers Cocktail is beperkt. Een gerandomiseerde studie (Ali et al., 2009) bij fibromyalgie liet geen significant verschil zien met placebo — al verbeterden beide groepen. Hoge-dosis IV vitamine C wordt onderzocht in oncologische ondersteuning maar is daar geen standaardbehandeling.
This is how a session goes
Every course of treatment is tailored, but this is what a typical course looks like — from the first intake to recovery and maintenance; how quickly that goes differs from person to person. You always know exactly where you stand.
Medical intake
Dr. Björn Mulder or Dr. Claudia Mulder (present on Thursday) checks medical history: G6PD, kidney function, medication.
Insert IV needle
Short puncture in a vein (often elbow crease). After that, no more discomfort. You sit or lie comfortably.
IV running
The Myers Cocktail (vit C 5-25g + Mg + B complex + Ca + Selenium) is absorbed slowly. Sensation of warmth + slight metallic taste normal.
No waiting time
You can get back to work straight away. Energy increase sometimes within hours, sometimes after a few sessions. Next appointment: 1-4 weeks.
Frequently asked questions
Does it really work or is it placebo?
Honest answer: hard scientific support is limited; many patients experience an effect, but a placebo component cannot be ruled out.
Is it safe?
In healthy patients and proper screening: yes. Pre-screening for G6PD and renal function is important with high vitamin C doses.
How long does the effect last?
Variable — several days to several weeks.
Is this allowed during chemotherapy?
Only in consultation with your treating oncologist.
Will it be reimbursed?
No, this is not covered by basic insurance and most additional packages.
IV treatments are given by Dr. Björn Mulder and/or Dr. Claudia Mulder, in Dordrecht, and on Thursdays in Rotterdam. Pre-screening mandatory: G6PD deficiency, renal insufficiency/history of kidney stones, heart failure, hemochromatosis and certain chemotherapy are contraindications. Not suitable during pregnancy (relative).
Scientific references
- Böttger F, Vallés-Martí A, Cahn L, Jimenez CR. High-dose intravenous vitamin C, a promising multi-targeting agent in the treatment of cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res. 2021 Oct 30;40(1):343. doi: 10.1186/s13046-021-02134-y. PMID: 34717701; PMCID: PMC8557029.
- Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(1):CD000980. Published 2013 Jan 31. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD000980.pub4
- Ali A, Njike VY, Northrup V, Sabina AB, Williams AL, Liberti LS, Perlman AI, Adelson H, Katz DL. Intravenous micronutrient therapy (Myers’ Cocktail) for fibromyalgia: a placebo-controlled pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2009 Mar;15(3):247-57. doi: 10.1089/acm.2008.0410. PubMed PMID: 19250003; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC2894814.
- Gaby AR. Intravenous nutrient therapy: the “Myers’ cocktail”. Altern Med Rev. 2002;7(5):389-403.
