| name | Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) |
| Classification | Water-soluble vitamin |
| Pharmacokinetics | Absorbed in the small intestine; primarily excreted in the urine. Plasma half-life is relatively short, estimated to be about 30 minutes to an hour. High doses of vitamin C may be excreted in urine. |
| suggested dosage | | adult | Recommended daily intake is 75-90 mg for women and 90 mg for men. Higher doses may be used therapeutically, but should be under the supervision of a physician. | | patient specific | For a 25-year-old male weighing 70 kg, a standard dose of 90 mg per day is generally adequate for a healthy individual. Higher doses are not automatically appropriate or recommended, and should be discussed with a doctor. Individual needs may vary and a physician should determine the appropriate dosage based on any specific condition or need. |
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| indications | | 1 | Prevention and treatment of scurvy. | | 2 | Potential role in wound healing | | 3 | Potential role in collagen synthesis | | 4 | Some evidence suggests a role in immune function, but the impact on the body is not well-defined | | 5 | Certain individuals may require increased intake for specific needs (e.g., smokers or those with certain medical conditions). |
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| Safety in pregnancy | Generally considered safe in pregnancy when taken at recommended doses. However, high doses may be associated with potential issues, including increased oxalate excretion which may contribute to kidney stones. Consult a physician. |
| Safety in breastfeeding | Generally considered safe in breastfeeding when taken at recommended doses. However, high doses may impact the infant. Consult a physician. |
| side effects | | 1 | High doses can cause gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps. These effects are usually dose-dependent and generally reversible. | | 2 | Rarely, high doses of Vitamin C can cause kidney stones, especially in those with a history of kidney stones or in those who do not have sufficient fluid intake. | | 3 | Other rare side effects include skin flushing, insomnia, or insomnia and mild allergic reactions. These are often associated with high doses. |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Patients with a known history of oxalate kidney stones should discuss this medication with a physician, as Vitamin C may exacerbate the issue. | | 2 | Individuals with a known allergy to Vitamin C should not take it. | | 3 | Pre-existing certain conditions might need caution or consultation. |
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| interactions | | 1 | High doses of Vitamin C might interfere with the absorption of some medications, or may alter the effectiveness of certain medications or supplements (such as certain types of anticoagulants, salicylates, and some medications that treat cancer or mental health conditions). Discuss this with your physician. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | People with certain medical conditions should discuss this medication with their physician. | | 2 | Always take vitamin C with food to minimize stomach upset. | | 3 | Be cautious using large doses, as they may cause potential side effects | | 4 | High doses may interfere with certain lab tests, such as glucose tests or iron tests. | | 5 | Do not self-treat or use high doses of Vitamin C without consulting a healthcare professional. | | 6 | Some individuals who take Vitamin C may need additional supplements or considerations, but such adjustments should be made under professional supervision. |
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| additional informations | Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for humans, involved in several bodily functions. However, excessive intake of vitamin C may not always be beneficial and should be done under professional care and supervision. |
