They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas – but, of course, this is not true. Drip bars offering a service called IV therapy may have become popular in Vegas, but they have made their way to medical practices and spas across the globe.

Initially conceived to treat hangovers for the party goers of “sin city,” it was only a matter of time before new uses for drip bars were made available for the masses. Hangovers are essentially related to dehydration. IV therapy addresses the dehydration, but also oxidative stress, which, if untreated, can lead to symptoms of nausea, fatigue, and weakness. With the success of the hangover cure, the drip bar market has expanded to include many other treatments for a variety of ailments. IV therapy is popular among athletes, for example, to help with muscle recovery and detoxification of petrochemicals. It can boost the immune system by providing high dose vitamin C, B-vitamins, and antioxidants. For those training on a competitive level, it is important to receive amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Amino acids also increase the ability to use oxygen during workouts. Athletes, in general, are exposed to more toxins because they exercise vigorously, breathe more air, and, therefore, inhale more pollutants. Loading up with antioxidants can help prevent a buildup of toxins in their blood. Those with chronic illnesses, like lyme disease, fibromyalgia, and more, can also benefit from these treatments. Jet lag can also be cured through IV therapy, as well as symptoms of the common cold or flu.

One of the most popular and beneficial infusions commonly includes the antioxidant glutathione and vitamin C. Glutathione is a master in detoxifying the body of metals, toxins, and free radicals. It is naturally-produced and found in every single cell of the body, but the production of this master antioxidant decreases as one ages. Common symptoms of decreasing levels include joint pain, brain fog and low energy. Infusions of glutathione slow the aging process and improve the immune system.

So, what does IV therapy involve? At a drip bar, a skilled doctor or nurse will insert an IV catheter into the client’s arm, just like at a hospital. Then, fluids, amino acids, antioxidants, electrolytes, minerals, and vitamins are infused directly into the bloodstream. Because of this, IV therapy is much more efficient than drinking fluids or taking vitamins because it bypasses the gastrointestinal tract and, in most cases, is 100 percent absorbed.

The good news is, interested clients do not have to be feeling ill to receive the benefits of IV therapy. These treatments might be thought to cure pre-existing conditions, however, more people are flocking to this treatment as preventative maintenance. Research has shown that certain vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants have anti-aging and skin brightening effects and benefit everyone. A common IV infusion for this is B-complex. B-vitamins help to maintain a positive mental attitude, enhance mental clarity, increase energy, fight stress, prevent memory loss, boost the immune system, and enhance athletic performance. Nonetheless, whether someone is an athlete, traveler, workaholic, or simply interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, preventative healthcare is certainly a priority. Healthcare has shifted from disease treatment to disease prevention. IV drip bars are the perfect fit for the modern day health conscious individual.

So, where is the best place to drip? Clients should look for a drip bar with reputable, medical professionals to administer treatments. IV therapies can be customized by the provider specifically according to their medical and health histories. There are also some mobile services that will travel to individuals. Treatments typically take about an hour, in which clients can sit, relax, and rejuvenate.