Short answer: Amino acid IV therapy delivers amino acids, the building blocks of protein, directly into a vein. Most healthy people get all the amino acids they need from food, and the evidence for IV amino acids in healthy people is limited. If you are curious, it is best treated as an optional add-on to a drip, not a replacement for a good diet, and it is worth speaking to a clinician first.
What are amino acids?
Amino acids are the small molecules that proteins are built from. Your body uses them to make muscle, enzymes, hormones and many other things. There are 20 standard amino acids. Nine of them are called essential, because your body cannot make them and you have to get them from food.
What is amino acid IV therapy?
It is an intravenous drip, or an add-on bag to a drip, that contains amino acids. Because it goes straight into the bloodstream, it bypasses digestion. In hospitals, intravenous amino acids are used as part of nutrition for people who cannot eat or absorb food normally. Using them in a wellness clinic for otherwise healthy people is a different situation, and that is where the evidence is much thinner.
Is it worth it?
It depends on what you expect from it.
- What we can say: Amino acids are essential nutrients, and an IV route does not depend on digestion.
- What we cannot say: There is not good evidence that IV amino acids improve energy, recovery, muscle growth or performance in healthy people over eating enough protein. Results vary from person to person, and we do not promise outcomes.
- Cost: An amino acid bag adds to the price of a drip, so it is worth deciding whether you want it rather than adding it by default.
If you are tired, run down or training hard, the more useful first steps are usually sleep, enough protein and a look at your blood levels, such as iron, vitamin D and B12. Our vitamin and nutrient blood test checks these.
Who might consider it?
- People who already enjoy IV drips and want to add an amino acid bag to one
- People who have talked it through with a clinician and want to try it
- People who are curious and understand the evidence is limited
Who should be cautious?
Amino acid infusions may not be suitable for everyone, including people with kidney or liver problems, some metabolic conditions, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Tell us about any medical conditions, allergies and medicines before your appointment, and speak to your GP first if you are unsure. Any IV treatment carries risks, such as bruising, irritation at the site, or a reaction, and our clinical team will go through these with you.
Amino acid drips at Boost & Glow
We offer amino acid bags as part of several of our IV drips at our Epping clinic, or at your home or workplace across Essex, Hertfordshire and London:
- Energy Booster including amino acids bag: £350
- Energy Booster+: £375
- WARRIOR IV Drip: £400
- The Boost & Glow with amino acids bag: £450
You can see every drip and injection, with prices, on our IV therapy and vitamin injections page. What is in each bag is confirmed when you book.
Frequently asked questions
What does an amino acid IV do?
It delivers amino acids directly into the bloodstream. Amino acids are used by the body to build proteins, but there is limited evidence that extra IV amino acids add benefits for healthy people who eat enough protein.
How much does an amino acid IV cost?
At Boost & Glow, drips that include an amino acids bag start from £350.
How long does it take?
An IV drip usually takes around 45 minutes. We will confirm the time for your drip when you book.
Is it safe?
IV treatments are given by qualified clinicians, but they carry risks and are not suitable for everyone. We go through your medical history before treatment.
Can I get enough amino acids from food?
Yes. Most people get all the amino acids they need from protein foods such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy, beans and lentils.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. IV therapy does not diagnose or treat medical conditions. If you feel unwell, contact your GP or NHS 111.
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