Vitamin C injections: Difference between revisions

Vitamin C plays an important role in tissue repair and lack of this vitamin causes scurvy. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient involved in the repair of tissue and the enzymatic production of certain neurotransmitters.  

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in various physiological functions. One of its most important functions is reducing iron from the ferric to the ferrous state in the intestine, which allows for its absorption. Vitamin C also facilitates the transfer of iron from plasma transferrin to liver ferritin and regulates iron distribution and storage by preventing the oxidation of tetrahydrofolate. Ascorbic acid, the active form of vitamin C, has been found to enhance the chelating action of deferoxamine during the treatment of chronic iron toxicity.

In addition to its role in iron metabolism, vitamin C has antioxidant properties. It may have a role in the regeneration of other biological antioxidants, such as glutathione and α-tocopherol, to their active state. Vitamin C also plays a crucial role in collagen formation, which is commonly found in skin and connective tissues. Ascorbate deficiency can lead to impaired collagen formation, resulting in the various features of scurvy, including capillary fragility manifested as hemorrhagic processes, delayed wound healing, and bony abnormalities.

However, there are some contraindications to consider when taking vitamin C. For instance, ascorbic acid should not be ingested 48-72 hours before amine-dependent stool occult blood tests are conducted because false negatives may occur. Chronic excessive doses of ascorbic acid can cause an increase in its own metabolism, which can cause scurvy if normal and supplemental intake are significantly reduced or discontinued. Large doses can also increase the likelihood of oxalate stones in the urinary tract in patients with a history of nephrolithiasis, hyperoxaluria, or oxalosis.

Patients with G6PD deficiency should use caution when taking large doses of ascorbic acid as it can cause hemolytic anemia. High doses of vitamin C may interfere with urinary glucose determinations using the glucose oxidase method. Patients with diabetes mellitus should be made aware of the possibility of falsely decreased glucose concentrations with these tests. Vitamin C may increase the risk of iron toxicity in patients with hemochromatosis, therefore, patients with this condition should limit their intake of vitamin C to no more than 500 mg/day. Ingestion of large quantities of ascorbic acid has been associated with fatal cardiac arrhythmias in patients with iron overload.

For pregnant women, vitamin C is classified as pregnancy category C. The use of vitamin C in excess of the recommended dietary allowance during normal pregnancy should be avoided unless, in the judgment of the physician, potential benefits in a specific, unique case outweigh the significant hazards involved. Breastfeeding women should also take care when using vitamin C supplements. While vitamin C in human milk is generally recognized as safe, adverse effects have not been reported with normal daily intake of vitamin C. If a breast-feeding infant experiences an adverse effect related to a maternally administered drug, healthcare providers are encouraged to report the adverse effect to the FDA.

Vitamin C is available in various formulations, including oral, intravenous, intramuscular, and subcutaneous routes. It is essential to store vitamin C properly, as it is sensitive to light, heat, and air. It is best stored between 32°F to 38°F (2°C to 8°C) and kept out of reach of children. Unused medications should be disposed of properly, as flushing them down the toilet or pouring them down a sink or drain can harm the environment. Before using vitamin C, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dose and administration route based on individual health needs and potential contraindications.

===What is Vitamin C?===

===Why do we need to take Vitamin C?===

Humans cannot synthesize ascorbic acid endogenously and a lack of dietary intake can lead to scurvy. Vitamin C is most frequently used as a nutritional supplement. It also is used as an adjunct treatment of idiopathic methemoglobinemia and with deferoxamine in the treatment of chronic iron toxicity.

* It is required for the functioning of several enzymes and is important for immune system function.

* Vitamin C also functions as an antioxidant.

===Price of Vitamin C Injections===

W8MD Super"C"harger - Regular Price $45.00 Now Only $30.00 (IM)

==Also see==

* [[IV nutrition]]

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