Thioctic Acid IV is an aesthetic IV drip that delivers an antioxidant to brighten dull skin tone. The ingredient prevents cells from oxidising and is also involved in converting carbohydrate into energy. Its approved indication in Korea is easing nerve symptoms from diabetes, so cosmetic use falls outside that approval.

It is given once or twice a week for a total of five to ten sessions. Brightening is felt from around the fifth, because the antioxidant effect accumulates and a single session makes little visible difference. It is often planned alongside glutathione, and stopping gradually returns things to baseline.

There is research showing weight loss, but it was a trial with an oral form and the difference was small. There is not enough evidence that injection produces the same result, and it is not an approved indication in any case. For weight management, diet and exercise alongside it is the realistic route.