Adverse effects of intravenous administration: an expert review

IV fluid is available electrolyte powder intended for hydration. Each pack contains electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and glucose, all of which are supposed to help the body absorb water more efficiently, says Charlotte Martin, MS, RD. Considering the fact that risks of dehydration pounded into our heads throughout our lives—and include such terrifying symptoms as dizziness, confusion, and even fainting—it’s only natural that we might be drawn to something that purports to help us avoid these problems. But can it be used? too much IV fluid or any other electrolyte mix? And are there any side effects of using Liquid IV for hydration?

Short answer: No, there’s nothing wrong with using a Liquid IV once or twice a day for hydration, and for most people without pre-existing conditions, it shouldn’t cause any worrisome side effects. But for a full breakdown of the electrolyte mix and IV fluid side effects, as well as some information on how much fluid to take per day, we turned to Martin. Here’s what she said.

Experts presented in this article

Charlotte MartinMS, RD, is a registered dietitian in Washington, DC

IV fluid: side effects of too much

Taking IV fluids or another electrolyte mix once a day is probably fine, Martin said. The biggest caveat she makes is about sodium. “One Liquid IV bag contains about 500 milligrams of sodium,” says Martin. Some brands, such as LMNT, contain up to 1,000 mg. But the recommended daily intake of sodium is 2,300 mg, Martin adds. (FWIW, some experts say this amount is too low a maximum for many healthy adults.) So, if you’re already on a high-sodium diet or have a condition that requires you to control your sodium intake, such as high blood pressure or kidney problems, extra sodium in electrolyte mixes is something to be aware of. “High sodium intake can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, high blood pressure and swelling of the extremities,” says Martin.

Does Liquid IV contain caffeine?

The original Liquid IV is caffeine-free, but the brand offers several different options, including Hydration Multiplier Energy, which contains caffeine. According to the website, each pack contains 100 milligrams of “natural caffeine” to boost focus, mental strength and alertness.

Many electrolyte powders offer caffeinated versions, so double-check to make sure the one you’re using is stimulating or not. Martin says using caffeinated hydration powders like Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier Energy before a workout is fine, but with some caveats. If you’re sensitive to caffeine or never drink caffeine, even 100 mg (about the amount in a regular cup of coffee) can “make your heart feel like it’s about to explode,” says Martin. And of course, if you have a medical condition that requires you to avoid caffeine, you’ll want to choose a caffeine-free electrolyte powder.

In summary, Liquid IV is generally a safe addition to your diet as long as you use it in moderation. But it is worth noting that powders with electrolytes are not mandatory for maintaining hydration. In fact, on days when you’re not very active, you might not need them at all, Martin says. So while they can be taken in moderation if they “give you peace of mind and make you feel a little better,” she says, for most people they’re not a requirement for a healthy lifestyle.

Ayana Herndon is a New York freelance writer and a graduate of the School of Public Communications S. AND. Newhouse at Syracuse University. She has a passion for amplifying voices of color in her work, which spans fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Her work has appeared in PS and Women’s Wear Daily.