The Trending 'Cinderella Drip': What Is Alpha-Lipoic Acid IV Therapy?

Recently, so-called VIP injections — including the Cinderella drip, Baek-ok drip, and vitamin infusions — have been generating a lot of buzz. However, just hearing the names can leave you wondering: what exactly are these injections, and what are they used for? In this post, we would like to introduce the Cinderella drip in more detail.

First, these trending VIP injections (also known as the Cinderella drip, Baek-ok drip, etc.) are not injected into the face or muscles. They are a form of intravenous (IV) therapy — administered directly into a vein. Among physicians, this is commonly referred to as IVNT (Intravenous Nutrient Therapy). Simply put, you lie back comfortably and receive a nutrient infusion through an IV drip.

In some ways it may sound quite uneventful, but it is certainly one of the most relaxing treatments you can receive.

The therapy generally involves mixing specific ampoules (the name and type vary by pharmaceutical manufacturer) into an injectable normal saline (N/S) solution, which is then administered intravenously. Additional supplements may also be combined as needed.

The ingredient most widely associated with the so-called 'Cinderella drip' is alpha-lipoic acid. Alpha-lipoic acid is a substance produced in small amounts by the body. It has been used in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy in diabetic patients (at significantly higher doses than those used in the Cinderella drip), and some research suggests it may also have positive effects on appetite suppression and obesity management.

So what effects can be expected from receiving the Cinderella drip as an IV infusion?

The most well-known effect is its antioxidant action. Antioxidant effects can also be thought of as anti-aging effects. 'Free radicals,' which are inevitably produced during metabolic processes, can accelerate aging and trigger inflammation. Neutralizing these free radicals is what 'antioxidation' means, and alpha-lipoic acid — the active ingredient in the Cinderella drip — is noted for its antioxidant properties. (Alpha-lipoic acid is reported to have antioxidant capacity approximately 400 times greater than that of vitamin C or vitamin E.)

Perhaps owing to these antioxidant properties, one of the first things recipients of the Cinderella drip commonly report is a sense of relief from fatigue.

This infusion may be particularly suitable for individuals who frequently feel fatigued or experience poor circulation leading to swelling (edema). By delivering a potent antioxidant intravenously, it is intended to support metabolism and aid in fatigue recovery. Those prone to swelling also commonly report that puffiness subsides more quickly alongside improved energy levels.

As is the case with most IVNT treatments, because the substance being infused is one naturally produced by the body, individuals who are deficient in it may notice more pronounced results, while those who already have sufficient levels may not experience as dramatic an effect.

However, for those who are chronically tired, have cold hands and feet, or are prone to swelling, regular sessions (approximately one to two times per week) may help improve these symptoms. Some individuals also report that their skin becomes smoother over time, and because the therapy supports metabolism, combining it with a weight-management program may contribute to more effective body fat reduction.

IVNT has grown so popular that clinics specializing exclusively in intravenous nutrient therapy have begun to emerge. It is easy to see why it has developed a following.

Potential side effects of the Cinderella drip include nausea or gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, which occur very rarely. Hypoglycemia may occur when administered at high doses; however, at the doses typically used for the Cinderella drip in otherwise healthy individuals, this is generally not a significant concern.

In times like these — when both body and mind can feel worn down — this may be a gentle, restful treatment worth considering. ^^