Brookline, MA

What’s the Difference Between Vitamin Injections and IVs?

August 15, 2025

If you’re feeling low on energy, run down, or in need of an immune boost, both vitamin injections and IV therapy can help. But which one is right for you — and what’s the actual difference?

What Are Vitamin Injections?

Vitamin injections deliver a concentrated dose of nutrients directly into your muscle (usually the arm or hip) using a quick, small injection.

At Dream Spa Medical, we offer targeted options like:

  • B12 injections – energy + metabolism
  • MIC (fat-burning) shots – support weight loss
  • Glutathione – powerful antioxidant for skin, detox, and immunity

Benefits of vitamin injections:

  • Quick and convenient (takes just a few minutes)
  • No IV drip required
  • Great for maintenance between larger treatments

Learn more about our vitamin shots

What Is IV Therapy?

IV therapy delivers a blend of fluids, vitamins, and nutrients directly into the bloodstream via small catheter in your arm. This allows for 100% absorption and larger doses of nutrients.

Our IV menu includes:

  • Dream Boost (Myer’s Cocktail) – for immunity, energy, and mood
  • B-Lean Drip – for metabolism + weight support
  • NAD+ IV – for brain function, cellular repair, and longevity

Benefits of IV therapy:

  • Hydrates and nourishes the body instantly
  • Perfect for recovery, burnout, or illness
  • Longer-lasting effects and higher-dose nutrients

Injections vs. IV Therapy: What’s the Difference?

Vitamin Injections IV Therapy
Absorption Fast (intramuscular) Immediate (intravenous)
Duration Quick (5–10 mins) 30–60 minutes
Hydration No Yes – fluids included
Nutrient Dose Lower Higher
Best For Maintenance & quick boosts Deep replenishment & recovery

 

Which One Should I Choose?

  • Choose vitamin injections if you’re looking for a quick, affordable boost between bigger treatments
  • Choose IV therapy if you’re feeling burnt out, dehydrated, or need fast recovery from travel, workouts, or illness
  • Combine both for a custom wellness plan tailored to your needs

Our providers will help you decide what’s right for your goals — whether it’s metabolism support, immune strengthening, or just a much-needed energy reset.

Book Your Wellness Consultation

Not sure where to start? We’ll build a personalized plan based on your lifestyle, energy level, and recovery needs.

Book your appointment now

Explore IVs and vitamin shots