Yellow serum in Türkiye: Deadly risks of unregulated IV treatments
Experts warn about the dangers of the widely used "atom" or "yellow serum," as reports emerge linking it to fatal incidents, Istanbul, Türkiye, Jan. 30, 2025. (IHA Photo)
A recent case in Afyonkarahisar has fueled discussions about the dangers of “yellow serum,” (sari serum) a vitamin-infused intravenous treatment that many use for a quick recovery.
The death of 38-year-old Mehmet Gundogan after receiving yellow serum treatment at a private clinic has raised urgent concerns about unregulated use and life-threatening risks.
Mehmet Gundogan’s death after yellow serum treatment raises serious concerns about clinic safety
On January 13, Gundogan, a father of two who was preparing for Umrah, visited a private clinic in Afyonkarahisar as he had a sore throat.
What happened?
- Reports say doctors gave him the yellow serum without any tests or allergy screening
- As the infusion neared completion, he struggled to breathe and collapsed
- Witnesses say clinic staff failed to intervene. His friend called an ambulance after realizing the severity of his condition
- Medical teams transferred him to Afyonkarahisar State Hospital, where doctors placed him in intensive care
- Despite their efforts, he died 20 hours later
His wife, Songul Gundogan, filed a legal complaint against the clinic’s doctors and staff.
My husband had no prior health issues. He just wanted to recover quickly for Umrah, but this so-called treatment killed him. The staff gave him the serum without any tests. When he started struggling to breathe, no one knew what to do. My two children are now fatherless.
What are Turkish experts saying about risks of controversial IV treatment?
Often called “atom serum” or “vitamin serum,” yellow serum is a mix of B and C vitamins, antihistamines, steroids, and painkillers. Many believe it speeds up recovery from the flu, fatigue, and minor illnesses, but experts warn about serious risks when it is administered improperly.
Dr. Serkan Dogan from Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Training and Research Hospital told Hurriyet, “These serums are not harmless vitamins. They contain substances that can trigger severe allergic reactions or cause complications if used incorrectly. The risks are especially high when unqualified people administer them in unsafe environments.”
Dr. Ismail Erbas from Medical Park Bahcelievler Hospital also warned about anaphylactic reactions. “Any IV treatment should only be administered in fully equipped medical centers where immediate intervention is possible,” he said.
Illegal yellow serum administration through social media promotions surge in Türkiye
Demand for yellow serum has fueled illegal administration in private homes and workplaces.
Reports say social media accounts advertise at-home IV services for fever, fatigue, and immune support. Some unlicensed practitioners provide the treatment for fees between $40-$55 (₺1,500- ₺2,000), charging extra for painkillers.
Authorities have started cracking down. Police in Adana recently seized over 6,000 ampules of illegal serum and arrested three individuals for selling unauthorized medical products.
Doctors and health officials demand stronger regulation of yellow serum use in Türkiye
Following Gundogan’s death, the Afyonkarahisar Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office launched an investigation into the clinic. Health authorities are now reviewing regulations on IV vitamin treatments. Meanwhile, doctors continue to warn against the risks of yellow serum.
Dr. Ertugrul Ak, an emergency medicine specialist, said:
Many people assume yellow serum is safe because they have received it before. But an allergic reaction can happen anytime, even after multiple uneventful treatments. The safest approach is to avoid unnecessary IV treatments and seek proper medical guidance.
Public health experts are urging authorities to impose stricter regulations on clinics offering yellow serum without medical oversight. They stress that the serum should only be used in hospitals and with a prescription.
Authorities continue investigating Gundogan’s death. His case has intensified calls for tougher restrictions on IV treatments in Türkiye, with many questioning whether yellow serum should be banned outside hospital settings entirely.
