IV drips for hangovers: How they can damage your liver and kidneys

Most importantly, at weddings, these may not be administered by clinic-trained staff. Because IV drips bypass the digestive system, harmful substances enter the bloodstream directly, risking infections, vein damage, and electrolyte imbalances if not administered properly by trained professionals. An IV drip should be reserved for genuine medical conditions under proper supervision to avoid unnecessary harm to vital organs like the liver and kidneys.

What’s the effect of IV drips on the liver?

While IV saline> can provide rapid relief from dehydration-related symptoms (thirst, headache, dizziness), it does not address all aspects of a hangover, such as the inflammatory response or the toxic byproduct of alcohol breakdown (acetaldehyde) that the liver must process. Time is the only factor that allows your liver to fully clear the alcohol from your system.

Additionally, certain vitamin infusions could add extra burden on the liver, especially if taken repeatedly or without medical supervision.

How do IV drips impact the kidneys?

Excessive and unregulated use of IV drips can disrupt the body’s delicate electrolyte balance and overload kidney function. Rapid infusion of fluids may overwhelm kidney filtration capacity, potentially causing swelling and even kidney stress.

What are safe alternatives to IV drips?

Focus on natural and oral methods that rehydrate the body and replenish lost electrolytes without risking strain on the liver and kidneys:

• Oral rehydration using water, home-made drinks or electrolyte packets is highly effective at restoring fluid and mineral balance.

• Consuming foods and drinks rich in vitamins and minerals helps recovery; this includes coconut water (high in potassium), lemon water (alkaline and liver supportive) and fresh fruit like bananas and apples.

• Natural remedies like ginger tea soothe nausea and inflammation, while peppermint tea eases stomach discomfort.

• Eating bland carbohydrate-rich foods like toast or crackers supports blood sugar and energy levels.

• Preventive measures such as pacing alcohol intake, drinking water between alcoholic beverages, and avoiding dark or sugary drinks reduce hangover severity.

These alternatives provide a safer, cost-effective, and accessible way to manage hangover symptoms while protecting vital organs from the risks associated with IV drip use outside medical supervision.

Effective oral rehydration solutions (ORS) for hangovers

These help replenish fluids, electrolytes and minerals lost due to alcohol’s dehydrating effects. These solutions balance sodium, potassium and glucose to aid quick absorption and hydration.

Common ORS recipes for hangovers include:

• Simple homemade ORS: Mix 1 litre of clean water with 6 teaspoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir until dissolved and sip slowly.

• Citrus electrolyte drink: Blend 1 glass of water with fresh lemon or lime juice, a pinch of salt, a teaspoon of honey or sugar, and optionally a splash of orange juice for added potassium.

• Coconut water: Natural coconut water is rich in potassium and electrolytes, making it an excellent quick hydration option.

• Salt and baking soda drink: Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 glass of water; this helps restore electrolyte balance and alkalinity.

• Herbal teas with honey and lemon: Ginger or peppermint tea with added honey and lemon can soothe the stomach and improve hydration.

These recipes provide gentle and effective rehydration at home, easing hangover symptoms while being safer and less invasive than IV drips.

(Dr Khurana is Director Gastroenterology, Metro Hospital, Faridabad)