name | Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) |
classification | Water-soluble vitamin |
pharmacokinetics | Rapidly absorbed from the GI tract. High doses can result in saturation of absorption and increased urinary excretion. Primarily metabolized in the liver. Excreted in the urine. |
suggested dosage | The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for adult men aged 25 is 90 mg/day. Higher doses may be considered for specific conditions, but this should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Specific dosage will depend on the condition being treated, the type of vitamin C product, and the individual's needs. It's important not to exceed recommended daily amounts without consulting a doctor. |
indications | 1 | Prevention and treatment of scurvy | 2 | As an antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress | 3 | May play a role in collagen synthesis | 4 | May aid in the absorption of iron |
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safety in pregnancy | Vitamin C is generally considered safe in pregnancy in moderate doses. However, high doses may be associated with increased risk of certain side effects and the risk should be carefully considered by a physician. Consult with a doctor about recommended intakes during pregnancy. |
safety in breastfeeding | Vitamin C is generally considered safe in breastfeeding mothers in moderate doses. However, high doses may be associated with increased risk of certain side effects and the risk should be carefully considered by a physician. Consult with a doctor about recommended intakes during breastfeeding. |
side effects | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) | 2 | Headache | 3 | Insomnia | 4 | Kidney stones (rare, especially with high doses) | 5 | Increased risk of iron overload (in patients with existing conditions) |
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alternatives | |
contraindications | 1 | Patients with kidney disease, history of kidney stones, or other conditions requiring careful monitoring of vitamin C levels. | 2 | Patients with high levels of iron in their blood. | 3 | Potential interactions with certain medications |
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interactions | 1 | Can interact with certain medications, including those that affect blood clotting, iron supplements and those used in managing iron-overloading situations. Some medications may increase vitamin C levels in the blood which can lead to potential health consequences. | 2 | Consult with a doctor or pharmacist about any medications you're taking. |
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warnings and precautions | 1 | Consult with a healthcare professional before using any supplements. Vitamin C supplements should not be used instead of a balanced diet. | 2 | Do not exceed recommended doses. Some people may experience issues with high doses of vitamin C supplements | 3 | Monitor kidney function if taking high doses regularly | 4 | Ensure proper hydration when taking high doses of vitamin C to prevent potential kidney stone formation. |
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additional informations | 1 | Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a role in immune function, collagen production, and antioxidant activity | 2 | Vitamin C is not stored in the body and needs to be replenished through diet and/or supplementation | 3 | This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment. |
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patient information | |