Injections for nutrition and cosmetic purposes: promoted effect vs. objective evidence

The introduction of intravenous nutritional therapy for cosmetic and health purposes in Korea has been controversial. Because it brings ethical problems of off-label prescribing on the basis of low level of medical evidences for claims of fatigue reduction, detoxification, anti-inflammation effect, skin whitening, antioxidant and anti-aging effects. Despite the lack of clinical studies, the verification of the efficacy and safety of intravenous nutritional therapy and the need to provide objective information to patients are prerequisite for the correct intravenous use. In addition, efforts should be made to prevent the abuse for commercial purposes.