From the Research
Lactated Ringer's solution is the preferred choice for treating hangovers due to its balanced formulation of electrolytes and lactate, which more closely resembles human plasma and can help counteract metabolic acidosis and support liver metabolism. When considering the treatment of hangovers, it's essential to prioritize the most effective and safe option. Lactated Ringer's contains electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride, as well as lactate, which can help mitigate the effects of alcohol consumption on the body 1. In contrast, normal saline provides hydration but contains only sodium and chloride in higher concentrations than found in blood.
For hangover treatment, a typical IV infusion would be 1 liter of Lactated Ringer's administered over 30-60 minutes. This can help with rehydration and electrolyte replacement, addressing some of the key symptoms of hangovers. The lactate in Ringer's can also help counteract metabolic acidosis that may occur with alcohol consumption, while supporting liver metabolism. Additionally, Lactated Ringer's is less likely to cause hyperchloremic acidosis that can occur with large volumes of normal saline. Both solutions require proper administration by qualified medical personnel using sterile technique.
While IV fluids can help with dehydration symptoms of hangovers, they don't directly address alcohol metabolism or all hangover symptoms, so rest, oral hydration, and time remain important components of hangover recovery. It's also worth noting that the available evidence suggests that several products are capable of significantly improving some, but not all, of the symptoms related to alcohol hangover, highlighting the need for further research to develop clinically effective hangover treatments 2. However, based on the current evidence, Lactated Ringer's solution is the preferred choice for treating hangovers due to its balanced formulation and potential benefits in addressing metabolic acidosis and supporting liver metabolism.
Some studies have investigated the effectiveness of various interventions for treating hangovers, including rehydration, prostaglandin inhibitors, and vitamin B6 3. However, the most recent and highest-quality study on the topic of fluid resuscitation in acute pancreatitis found that Lactated Ringer's reduces the development of moderately severe-severe pancreatitis relative to normal saline 1. Although this study is not directly related to hangovers, it provides valuable insights into the benefits of Lactated Ringer's in a related context.
In summary, Lactated Ringer's solution is the preferred choice for treating hangovers due to its balanced formulation and potential benefits in addressing metabolic acidosis and supporting liver metabolism. Proper administration by qualified medical personnel using sterile technique is essential, and rest, oral hydration, and time remain important components of hangover recovery.