Treatment guide · IV & Wellness
Thioctic Acid IV in Seoul
An alpha-lipoic acid antioxidant drip, the main ingredient of Korea's 'Cinderella' injection.
Ask the clinic for: 티옥트산 수액 (알파리포산 주사)
Quick answer
A thioctic acid IV is a drip of alpha-lipoic acid, an antioxidant used medically for diabetic nerve pain and offered by clinics for fatigue and skin. In Seoul it usually costs about ₩30,000–₩120,000. A session takes 20–40 minutes, has no downtime, any felt effect shows the same day, and evidence for beauty benefits is limited.
Estimated cost in Seoul
₩30,000–₩120,000
Treatment time
20–40 minutes
Downtime
None
Results show
Same day, if any
Results last
A few days
Sessions
1 session or a short course
Thioctic Acid IV explained
Thioctic acid, also called alpha-lipoic acid, is an antioxidant made naturally in the body in small amounts. As a medicine it is used in some countries, including Korea, to ease symptoms of diabetic nerve damage. In Seoul it is the key ingredient of the popular Cinderella injection, sold for tiredness and a brighter look.
How Thioctic Acid IV works
Thioctic acid is mixed in saline and dripped slowly into a vein. It acts as an antioxidant and helps cells use glucose. Studies support its use for diabetic nerve symptoms, but there is little good evidence that it whitens skin, aids weight loss or reverses ageing.
Who Thioctic Acid IV is for
- Adults wanting a short antioxidant wellness drip
- People with nerve symptoms managed by their own doctor
- Visitors adding a drip to a skin treatment day
- Those who understand beauty claims are not well proven
Who should avoid Thioctic Acid IV
- People with diabetes on insulin or sugar-lowering medicine, unless a doctor plans it (low blood sugar risk)
- Pregnant or breastfeeding people
- Known allergy to thioctic or alpha-lipoic acid
- People with thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, such as heavy drinkers, unless corrected
What happens at the appointment
- Health questionnaire and brief doctor check
- Eat a light meal beforehand if possible
- IV line placed in the arm
- Slow drip for 20–40 minutes
- Short rest and line removal
Aftercare and flying home
- Eat something afterwards, especially if you feel shaky
- Drink water
- Expect a possible unusual urine smell for a day
- Report rash, sweating, shaking or breathing problems straight away
Side effects and risks
- Nausea, headache or a metallic taste
- Low blood sugar symptoms such as sweating or dizziness
- Unusual urine odour for a short time
- Rarely allergic reaction or vein irritation
How much does Thioctic Acid IV cost in Seoul?
₩30,000–₩120,000 (about US$20–90) — Price depends on the dose and whether vitamins, glutathione or other ingredients are added to the drip. It is one of the lower-cost drips in Seoul. Prices are estimates and change with promotions.
Why get Thioctic Acid IV in Korea?
Thioctic acid drips are very common in Korea and widely available at low prices with short waits. They are often booked as a quick add-on to other treatments during a visit.
Prices are estimates gathered for Seoul clinics and change with brand, dose and promotions — confirm a quote with the clinic before booking. This page is general information, not medical advice; a doctor will assess whether a treatment suits you at consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a thioctic acid IV cost in Seoul?
A thioctic acid IV in Seoul usually costs about ₩30,000–₩120,000, depending on the dose and added ingredients.
Does a thioctic acid IV hurt?
Only a quick pinch when the needle goes in. Some people feel mild nausea during the drip.
Is thioctic acid the same as the Cinderella injection?
Largely, yes. The Cinderella injection in Korea is based on thioctic acid, sometimes with added vitamins.
Can I fly after a thioctic acid IV?
Yes, there is no downtime. Eat before your flight in case you feel light-headed.
Is a thioctic acid IV safe?
It is generally well tolerated in healthy adults. People with diabetes should tell the doctor because it can lower blood sugar.
Does thioctic acid help with weight loss or skin whitening?
There is no strong evidence that it causes meaningful weight loss or skin whitening. Its proven medical use is for diabetic nerve symptoms.
Where to get it in Seoul
Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.
Pins show each clinic's neighbourhood or nearest station, not the exact door. Not every clinic offers every treatment — ask before you go.
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