On December 14, 2024, Dubai resident Valeriya Thores was rushed to a hospital after suffering severe convulsions, vomiting, and breathlessness — a “terrifying” reaction to her first and only IV (intravenous) drip therapy.
“I couldn’t breathe, couldn’t open my eyes, and developed a body rash. To this day, I suffer from insomnia due to the trauma,” the 31-year old Scottish expat recalled.
Valeriya had received a NAD+ IV drip at a clinic but no prior medical tests were conducted. “They never even gave me a consent form at the start. It was only handed to me after the three-hour drip was over,”
Her condition deteriorated after the IV was removed. “My hands were ice cold. I started having convulsions, threw up multiple times, and struggled to breathe. The nurse told my mother it was normal and left.”
“Thankfully, the quick action by my mother saved my life. If she hadn’t been visiting me that day, I don’t know if I’d be here to tell this story,” Valeriya added.
She was rushed to a hospital, where she was kept under observation for four hours. A medical report seen by Khaleej Times states she was treated for a “severe allergic reaction” following an immunity-boosting IV drip.
Valeriya has since filed a complaint with Dubai’s health regulator, which is currently under review.
While her case is extreme, she is one of many drawn to IV drip therapy — which is widely marketed as a solution for dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, glowing skin, and overall wellness.
According to a report by Horizon Grand View Research, the UAE’s IV hydration therapy market is expected to reach $22.9 million by 2030, growing at a compound annual rate of 5.8 per cent from 2024 to 2030. The most in-demand services include energy boosters and skincare treatments, with the latter projected to grow the fastest.
Among those who regularly use IV therapy is Nazia Khan, a mindset, fitness, and nutrition coach, who has incorporated it into her wellness routine for years.
“I first started using IV drip therapy back in London, where I’m from, and continued in Ibiza before moving to Dubai. I use it mainly for hydration, energy, and immune support,” she shared.
Nazia, a British expat, emphasised the importance of proper consultation before the procedure.
“I was asked about any underlying health conditions, medications, or allergies, but no formal tests were conducted. While some clinics recommend blood tests to customise the treatment, mine did not.”
After her sessions, she noticed immediate effects.
“I felt an instant boost in hydration, increased energy, and better mental clarity. It’s different from treatments like acupuncture or massage because the impact feels more internal, at a cellular level,” she explained.
