What are the benefits of high dose Vitamin C IV therapy. How does intravenous Vitamin C support collagen production, energy levels, and immune function. Is high dose Vitamin C IV safe and effective for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

The Vital Role of Vitamin C in Human Health

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions. Our bodies cannot produce this vital compound, making it necessary to obtain it from external sources. While most people associate Vitamin C with preventing scurvy, its importance extends far beyond this historical application.

Severe Vitamin C deficiency can lead to a condition called scurvy, characterized by:

• Bleeding gums
• Hair and tooth loss
• Joint pain and swelling
• In extreme cases, death

Although small amounts of Vitamin C from dietary sources can prevent scurvy, achieving optimal health often requires higher doses than what can be obtained through food alone.

The Advantage of Intravenous Vitamin C Administration

When consumed orally, only about 18% of Vitamin C is absorbed by the body. This limited bioavailability can make it challenging to achieve therapeutic levels through diet or oral supplements alone. In contrast, intravenous (IV) administration of Vitamin C ensures 100% bioavailability, allowing for much higher concentrations to be delivered directly to the bloodstream.

Why is IV administration superior for high-dose Vitamin C therapy?

• Bypasses the digestive system, avoiding absorption limitations
• Achieves higher blood concentrations than possible with oral intake
• Allows for precise dosing and rapid delivery to tissues
• Minimizes gastrointestinal side effects that can occur with high oral doses

Key Benefits of High-Dose Vitamin C IV Therapy

High-dose Vitamin C administered intravenously offers a wide range of potential health benefits, supporting various bodily functions and addressing specific health concerns.

Adrenal Support and Energy Enhancement

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the synthesis of stress hormones by the adrenal glands. IV therapy can help:

• Support adrenal function during periods of stress
• Improve energy levels and reduce fatigue
• Enhance the body’s ability to cope with physical and mental stressors

Skin Health and Collagen Production

As a key factor in collagen synthesis, high-dose Vitamin C can significantly benefit skin health:

• Promote wound healing and reduce scarring
• Improve skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging
• Protect against sun damage and support skin repair

Strengthening Connective Tissues

Vitamin C’s role in collagen production extends beyond skin health, benefiting various connective tissues:

• Strengthen tendons and ligaments
• Support bone health and density
• Improve the integrity of blood vessel walls

Immune System Boosting

High-dose Vitamin C is renowned for its immune-enhancing properties:

• Stimulate the production and function of white blood cells
• Enhance the body’s ability to fight viral and bacterial infections
• Reduce the duration and severity of common illnesses

Antioxidant Protection

As a powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C helps protect cells from oxidative stress:

• Neutralize harmful free radicals
• Reduce inflammation throughout the body
• Support overall cellular health and function

Applications of High-Dose Vitamin C IV Therapy

High-dose Vitamin C IV therapy can be particularly beneficial in various situations and health conditions:

Stress Management

During periods of intense physical or emotional stress, IV Vitamin C can help:

• Support adrenal function
• Improve stress resilience
• Reduce the negative impact of chronic stress on the body

Fatigue and Low Energy

For individuals experiencing excessive fatigue or low energy levels, IV Vitamin C may:

• Boost energy production at the cellular level
• Improve overall vitality and stamina
• Enhance physical and mental performance

Immune System Support

High-dose Vitamin C can be particularly valuable for bolstering the immune system:

• During cold and flu season
• When fighting acute or chronic infections
• For individuals with compromised immune function

Skin Rejuvenation

IV Vitamin C therapy can be used to improve skin health and appearance:

• After sun damage or excessive UV exposure
• Following cosmetic procedures or surgery
• As part of an anti-aging skincare regimen

Supporting Cancer Patients

While the role of Vitamin C in cancer treatment remains controversial, some studies suggest it may help:

• Reduce side effects of chemotherapy and radiation
• Improve quality of life for cancer patients
• Potentially enhance the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments

The Science Behind Vitamin C’s Diverse Effects

The wide-ranging benefits of high-dose Vitamin C can be attributed to its involvement in several crucial biochemical processes:

Collagen Synthesis

Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body. Collagen is a key component of:

• Skin
• Blood vessels
• Ligaments
• Bones

Without adequate Vitamin C, collagen production is impaired, leading to weakened connective tissues and potential health issues such as:

• Thin, fragile skin
• Weak blood vessels (potentially leading to aneurysms)
• Increased risk of ligament and tendon injuries

Energy Production

Vitamin C plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by facilitating the production of carnitine, a molecule essential for fat breakdown and energy production. This involvement in energy metabolism explains why Vitamin C can have such a significant impact on fatigue and overall energy levels.

A 2011 study demonstrated that a high dose (10 grams) of intravenous Vitamin C reduced fatigue in office workers within 2 hours, with effects lasting up to 24 hours. This research underscores the potential of IV Vitamin C therapy for combating fatigue and low energy.

Immune System Support

Vitamin C’s immune-boosting properties are well-documented. At high doses, it may have direct effects against infectious agents, including:

• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Potentially even cancer cells (though this remains controversial)

One mechanism behind this effect is the generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at very high Vitamin C concentrations. This reactive oxygen species can help destroy pathogens and potentially support the body’s natural defense mechanisms.

Historical and recent research highlights Vitamin C’s potential in fighting various infections:

• Used as a treatment for polio before the vaccine’s development
• Shown to enhance the production of anti-influenza cytokines in animal studies
• Demonstrated to reduce the severity of symptoms associated with H1N1 influenza virus

Antioxidant Properties

As a potent antioxidant, Vitamin C helps protect various cellular structures from damage caused by free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS). This protective effect is particularly important in:

• High-stress states
• Chronic illnesses
• Infections

By neutralizing these harmful compounds, Vitamin C helps maintain cellular health and function, potentially reducing the risk of various chronic diseases and supporting overall well-being.

High-Dose Vitamin C and Cancer: Current Understanding

The potential role of high-dose Vitamin C in cancer treatment is an area of ongoing research and debate within the medical community. While large-scale clinical trials are still needed to draw definitive conclusions, several important observations have been made:

Safety and Tolerability

High-dose Vitamin C, even at levels exceeding 100 grams when administered intravenously, has been shown to be remarkably safe and well-tolerated. Common concerns about potential side effects have been largely dispelled:

• The risk of kidney stones (due to oxalic acid formation) has been shown to be minimal, with oxalic acid levels remaining well-controlled even at high doses.
• Gastrointestinal side effects, which can occur with high oral doses, are generally avoided with IV administration.

Potential Mechanisms of Action

At high concentrations achieved through IV administration, Vitamin C appears to shift from its typical antioxidant role to a pro-oxidant function. This change is believed to occur through interactions with oxygen and iron, leading to the formation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in tissues.

Why might this be significant in cancer treatment?

• Hydrogen peroxide is used by immune cells to kill foreign invaders and potentially cancer cells.
• Some research suggests that cancer cells may be more susceptible to damage from hydrogen peroxide than healthy cells.
• This pro-oxidant effect could potentially enhance the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy.

Supportive Care for Cancer Patients

While its direct anti-cancer effects remain under investigation, high-dose Vitamin C IV therapy has shown promise in supportive care for cancer patients:

• Reducing fatigue associated with chemotherapy and radiation
• Improving quality of life and overall well-being
• Potentially enhancing the body’s ability to cope with the stress of cancer treatment

It’s important to note that patients considering high-dose Vitamin C therapy as part of their cancer treatment should always consult with their oncology team. Vitamin C can interact with certain chemotherapy drugs and may not be appropriate for all patients or cancer types.

Practical Considerations for High-Dose Vitamin C IV Therapy

For those considering high-dose Vitamin C IV therapy, several practical considerations should be taken into account:

Medical Supervision and Testing

High-dose Vitamin C IV therapy should always be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Before beginning treatment, certain tests are typically recommended:

• G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) testing to rule out a rare genetic condition that can cause complications with high-dose Vitamin C
• Comprehensive chemistry panel to assess overall health and organ function

Frequency and Duration of Treatment

The optimal frequency and duration of high-dose Vitamin C IV therapy can vary depending on the individual’s health status and treatment goals. Common approaches include:

• Weekly treatments for general health maintenance and immune support
• More frequent sessions (2-3 times per week) for acute conditions or during periods of increased stress
• Extended treatment courses for chronic conditions or as part of a comprehensive wellness plan

Potential Side Effects and Contraindications

While generally well-tolerated, high-dose Vitamin C IV therapy may cause mild side effects in some individuals:

• Temporary flushing or warmth during infusion
• Mild headache or nausea (usually resolving quickly)
• Potential for vein irritation at the infusion site

Certain medical conditions may contraindicate high-dose Vitamin C IV therapy, including:

• Renal insufficiency or a history of kidney stones
• Hemochromatosis or other iron storage disorders
• G6PD deficiency

Complementary Therapies and Lifestyle Factors

To maximize the benefits of high-dose Vitamin C IV therapy, individuals may consider incorporating complementary approaches:

• A nutrient-rich diet high in fruits and vegetables
• Regular exercise and stress management practices
• Adequate hydration to support the body’s detoxification processes
• Other targeted nutritional supplements as recommended by a healthcare provider

The Future of High-Dose Vitamin C in Medicine

As research into high-dose Vitamin C therapy continues to evolve, several exciting areas of investigation are emerging:

Personalized Medicine Approaches

Advances in genetic testing and biomarker analysis may help identify individuals who are most likely to benefit from high-dose Vitamin C therapy. This could lead to more targeted and effective treatment protocols.

Combination Therapies

Researchers are exploring the potential synergistic effects of combining high-dose Vitamin C with other treatments, such as:

• Conventional cancer therapies
• Other antioxidants and nutraceuticals
• Emerging immunotherapies

Novel Delivery Methods

While IV administration currently offers the highest bioavailability, researchers are investigating new delivery methods that could make high-dose Vitamin C therapy more accessible and convenient:

• Liposomal formulations for improved oral absorption
• Transdermal delivery systems
• Targeted nanoparticle delivery for specific health conditions

Expanded Applications

Ongoing research is exploring the potential benefits of high-dose Vitamin C in a wide range of health conditions, including:

• Neurodegenerative disorders
• Cardiovascular disease
• Autoimmune conditions
• Metabolic disorders

As our understanding of Vitamin C’s diverse effects on human health continues to grow, it’s likely that high-dose IV therapy will play an increasingly important role in both preventive medicine and the treatment of various health conditions. However, it’s crucial that this therapy continues to be studied rigorously and administered under proper medical supervision to ensure its safety and efficacy.

High Dose Vitamin C IV

HIGH DOSE VITAMIN C IV

Vitamin C is essential to life itself. We can’t live without it, and our bodies can’t make any of it.

Deprived of vitamin C, your body falls apart at the very root. In extreme cases you end up with a condition called scurvy that involves bleeding, hair and tooth loss, joint pain and swelling, and eventually death.

Fortunately, even small amounts of vitamin C from foods like oranges and lemons prevents this condition. Unfortunately, food and oral supplements usually aren’t enough to achieve optimal health.

You see, only about 18% of the vitamin C we consume is absorbed by our bodies. However, when it’s delivered by IV, vitamin C is 100% bioavailable. That means you can support your adrenal glands, maintain energy levels, improve and protect your skin, strengthen tendons and bones, boost you immune system and fight chemotherapy / radiation side effects with the power of high dose vitamin C.

High dose vitamin C is especially useful any time you are under greater than usual amounts of stress, feeling excessive fatigue, when your immune system needs bolstering to fight acute or chronic viral and bacterial infections, when your skin needs to be restored to glowing conditions such as after sun damage or surgery and to help improve the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy like fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

Testing: G6PD, (Buy G6PD test $49)  Chemistry panel blood tests required.

Vitamin C has such broad applications because it is a key factor in collagen production (skin, blood vessels, ligaments and bones), adrenalin and carnitine synthesis (energy), it directly boosts the immune system, and it has a potent antioxidant function. So let’s look at each of these in turn.

Collagen Production

Collagen is the structural protein found in all animal tissue. It holds our muscles to our bones, provides structural support for veins and arteries, and more.

Vitamin C is required for collagen synthesis along with the amino acids proline and lysine (1). When you don’t have enough collagen, you may have thin skin and weaker blood vessels, bones, tendons and ligaments. This can lead to aneurysms (blood vessel wall thinning), possible stroke, and even the ruptured ligaments and tendons commonly seen in sports injuries.

High doses of vitamin C when administered by IV can bolster skin and connective tissue and prevent these outcomes.

Energy Production

Vitamin C is required in the breakdown of fat for energy use. It takes part in the synthesis of a molecule called carnitine which serves as a shuttle bringing fats into the mitochondria in our cells for energy production.

This means it can have a powerful influence on our energy levels. For example, a 2011 scientific study showed high dose (10 grams) vitamin C given by IV reduced fatigue in office workers after 2 hours and continued its effect for 24 hours (2)

Immune Support

Vitamin C may have a direct effect against infectious agents like bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells. (The use of Vitamin C in cancer is still controversial but is being studied and is promising… read more below.) At very high doses it can generate peroxide (h3O2) which may account for this effect.

Before the polio vaccine, vitamin C was used as a high dose intramuscular injection every 8 hours in the treatment of polio with some success. More recently in mice genetically modified to lose the ability to make vitamin C, external vitamin C was shown to increase the mice’s ability to increase anti-influenza cytokines (powerful immune system cells) and fight influenza virus infections (3).

Antioxidant Properties

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps protect cell structures like collagen, proteins, and DNA from damage by free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) which are common in high stress states, chronic illness and infections.

Research has shown that the antioxidant properties of vitamin C can reduce the severity of symptoms associated with h2N1 influenza virus and is considered an important add-on therapy in surviving the flu (4).

Cancer and Chemotherapy

The role of vitamin C as a therapy for cancer is very controversial. No large scale studies have been done to definitively conclude one way or another if vitamin C has a role in the treatment of cancer. Here is what we do know:

1. Vitamin C even in high doses of 1.5 grams/ kg (over 100 grams) is safe and tolerated very well with very few side effects. Even the myth of kidney stones (oxalic acid) has been dispelled in recent studies which have shown that oxalic acid levels remain well controlled even with high doses of vitamin C. (5)
2. IV vitamin C becomes an oxidant at high doses as opposed to its antioxidant function at lower doses. This is because vitamin C interacts with oxygen and iron to cause the formation of high concentrations of peroxide (h3O2) in tissues. Peroxide is used by immune cells to kill foreign invaders and cancer cells. Vitamin C also depletes ATP and causes DNA damage to cancer cells. (7)
3. High dose IV vitamin C can be used safely in conjunction with chemotherapy (except methotrexate) and radiation in certain situations in which the patient’s oncological team is aware of and has agreed to incorporate vitamin C as a treatment modality. (5, 6)
4. High dose IV vitamin C may improve mood and energy for patients undergoing cancer treatment using other modalities. (5)
5. High dose IV vitamin C can be used safely in treatment of terminal cancers which have not responded to chemotherapy and radiation treatment even if it may be of limited use in further killing these cancer cells. (5)

Some of the most active treatment and research for the use of high dose IV vitamin C is coming out of The Riordan Clinic in Wichita, Kansas where they have been using it for decades. The clinic has published a well-known protocol that has become a standard for scientific studies on high dose IV vitamin C. This protocol is what we follow in our clinic, and can be accessed here.

In addition, the University of Kansas Medical Center is also actively researching the use of high dose IV vitamin C in cancer, and has a full time clinic with 10 chairs and 2 isolation rooms dedicated solely to the treatment of cancer patients with this therapy. You can read more about it here and here.

Lastly, the US Government NIH National Cancer Institute publishes updated information on the current state of research and knowledge on the use of high dose IV vitamin C in the treatment of cancer. This can be accessed here.

Vitamin C (ascorbate) is a powerful antioxidant and several critical enzymes require vitamin C in the synthesis of collagen from proline and lysine. Vitamin C is, therefore, required for the maintenance of normal connective tissue as well as for wound healing since synthesis of connective tissue is the first event in wound tissue remodeling. Vitamin C is also necessary for bone remodeling due to the presence of collagen in the organic matrix of bones.

Vitamin C is required for conversion of tyrosine to epinephrine (adrenalin), and the synthesis of the bile. It is present in high amounts in the adrenal gland cortex and these levels are depleted after adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation of the gland and synthesis of the stress hormone cortisol, which is why it’s important to replete vitamin C level during times of high stress.

References

1. Mussini E, Hutton JJ, Udenfriend S. Collagen proline hydroxylase in wound healing, granuloma formation, scurvy, and growth. Science. 157:927-9.
2. Suh SY, Bae WK, Ahn HY, Choi SE, Jung GC, Yeom, CH. Intravenous Vitamin C administration reduces fatigue in office workers: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Nutr J, 11(7).
3. Kim, Y, Kim H, Bae S, Choi J, Lim SY, Lee N, Lee, WJ. Vitamin C is an essential factor on the anti-viral immune responses through the production of interferon-α/β at the initial stage of influenza A virus (h4N2) infection. Immune network, 13(2), 70-74.
4. Uchide N, Toyoda H. Antioxidant therapy as a potential approach to severe influenza-associated complications. Molecules, 16(3), 2032-2052.
5. Hoffer LJ, Robitaille L, Zakarian R, Melnychuk D, Kavan P, Agulnik J, Miller Jr WH. High-Dose Intravenous Vitamin C Combined with Cytotoxic Chemotherapy in Patients with Advanced Cancer: A Phase I-II Clinical Trial.
6. Ma Y, Chapman J, Levine M, Polireddy K, Drisko J, Chen Q. High-dose parenteral ascorbate enhanced chemosensitivity of ovarian cancer and reduced toxicity of chemotherapy. Science translational medicine, 6(222), 222ra18-222ra18.
7. Tian W, Wang Y, Xu Y, Guo X, Wang B, Sun L, Esteban MA. The hypoxia-inducible factor renders cancer cells more sensitive to vitamin C-induced toxicity. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 289(6), 3339-3351.

Vitamin C Injection and Intravenous Vitamin C: Purpose and More

Vitamin C Injection and Intravenous Vitamin C: Purpose and More

• Health Conditions
  • Featured
    • Breast Cancer
    • IBD
    • Migraine
    • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
    • Rheumatoid Arthritis
    • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Articles
    • Acid Reflux
    • ADHD
    • Allergies
    • Alzheimer’s & Dementia
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Cancer
    • Crohn’s Disease
    • Chronic Pain
    • Cold & Flu
    • COPD
    • Depression
    • Fibromyalgia
    • Heart Disease
    • High Cholesterol
    • HIV
    • Hypertension
    • IPF
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Psoriasis
    • Skin Disorders and Care
    • STDs
• Discover
  • Wellness Topics
    • Nutrition
    • Fitness
    • Skin Care
    • Sexual Health
    • Women’s Health
    • Mental Well-Being
    • Sleep
  • Product Reviews
    • Vitamins & Supplements
    • Sleep
    • Mental Health
    • Nutrition
    • At-Home Testing
    • CBD
    • Men’s Health
  • Original Series
    • Fresh Food Fast
    • Diagnosis Diaries
    • You’re Not Alone
    • Present Tense
  • Video Series
    • Youth in Focus
    • Healthy Harvest
    • No More Silence
    • Future of Health
• Plan
  • Health Challenges
    • Mindful Eating
    • Sugar Savvy
    • Move Your Body
    • Gut Health
    • Mood Foods
    • Align Your Spine
  • Find Care
    • Primary Care
    • Mental Health
    • OB-GYN
    • Dermatologists
    • Neurologists
    • Cardiologists
    • Orthopedists
  • Lifestyle Quizzes
    • Weight Management
    • Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
    • Are You a Workaholic?
    • How Well Do You Sleep?
  • Tools & Resources
    • Health News
    • Find a Diet
    • Find Healthy Snacks
    • Drugs A-Z
    • Health A-Z
• Connect
  • • Breast Cancer
    • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
    • Psoriatic Arthritis
    • Migraine
    • Multiple Sclerosis
    • Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. D. — By the Healthline Medical Network — Updated on December 8, 2018

Overview

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient in our diet. It has many important roles our body’s immune function, including:

• wound healing
• preventing damage to cells
• building collagen
• producing chemical messengers called neurotransmitters

Vitamin C can be found in many healthy foods, especially:

• citrus fruits and juice
• red and green peppers
• broccoli
• strawberries
• Brussels sprouts

You can also get vitamin C from dietary supplements. Vitamin C supplements are available in many forms:

• oral tablets
• chewable tablets
• extended-release tablets
• extended-release capsules

Vitamin C is also available by prescription as an injection. The injectable vitamin C can be given into a vein (intravenously), into a muscle (intramuscularly), or under the skin (subcutaneously).

Many people take vitamin C for general health or to boost their immune system. It’s also taken to treat vitamin C deficiency.

Vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy. Characteristic symptoms of vitamin C deficiency include:

• swollen and bleeding gums
• fatigue
• poor wound healing
• joint pain
• loose teeth
• colored spots on the skin

In some cases, signs of scurvy can occur within a month of consuming less than 10 milligrams (mg) per day of vitamin C.

Today, scurvy is rare in developed countries. It’s most likely to occur in people who:

• smoke
• consume a limited variety of food
• have nutrient absorption problems

Vitamin C injections are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating vitamin C deficiency. They’re also approved for helping to treat serious wounds from trauma or burns.

However, vitamin C injections are typically only used when vitamin C levels need to be increased quickly or when oral supplements can’t be taken due to poor absorption or other reasons.

Off-label use

Vitamin C injections are sometimes used off-label for other conditions, including:

• cancer
• general health
• immune function
• weight loss

Off-label drug use means that a drug that’s been approved by the FDA for one purpose is used for a different purpose that has not been approved. However, a doctor can still use the drug for that purpose. This is because the FDA regulates the testing and approval of drugs, but not how doctors use drugs to treat their patients. So your doctor can prescribe a drug however they think is best for your care. Learn more about off-label prescription drug use.

Cancer

As early as the 1970s, some researchers were suggesting that using high doses of intravenous vitamin C along with cancer drugs could improve treatment of cancer. Intravenous vitamin C can produce very high levels of vitamin C in the body. Researchers believe that these high vitamin C levels can be toxic to cancer cells without harming the healthy cells of the body.

Some researchers also believe that vitamin C might be able to reduce the side effects of cancer drugs.

However, the potential benefits of intravenous vitamin C in cancer treatment remains controversial. In a systematic review, researchers found inadequate evidence to determine if intravenous vitamin C was beneficial for cancer treatment.

General health and immune function

Some people receive vitamin C injections for general health or to boost immune function and for convenience. The injection means they don’t have to remember to take a supplement pill each day.

It’s true that vitamin C has an important function in the body, but it’s controversial whether taking additional vitamin C — orally or by injection — offers any advantage for people who consume adequate vitamin C in their diet.

The research is inconclusive regarding whether vitamin C reduces the chance of developing cancer, prevents heart disease, prevents eye disease such as macular degeneration, or prevents the common cold.

Weight loss

Vitamin C injection is sometimes used for weight loss. Some research suggests that people who don’t have adequate vitamin C intake aren’t able to burn fat very well.

This means that it’s important to ensure adequate intake of vitamin C. However, there is no scientific research showing that taking vitamin C supplements orally or vitamin C injections causes weight loss.

For treating vitamin C deficiency, the typical vitamin C injection dose is 200 mg once daily for up to a week.

For wound healing, the typical vitamin C injection dose is 1 gram once daily for 5 to 21 days.

For off-label uses, a wide variety of vitamin C injection doses have been used. These typically range from 10 to 100 grams. Doses may be given daily or periodically at different intervals.

Vitamin C injections are safe when used for FDA-approved reasons at typical doses. The most common side effects are pain and swelling at the injection site.

Very high doses of vitamin C injections also seem to have few side effects. Some of these include nausea and pain at injection site. Learn more about vitamin C side effects.

If you’re thinking about getting high doses of vitamin C through injection, talk with your doctor about the potential risks.

Vitamin C increases iron absorption from the food you eat. If you take very high doses of vitamin C, your body might absorb too much iron. This could be a potential problem if you already have high levels of iron in your body.

If you have kidney disease, very high doses of vitamin C might result in kidney damage.

High-dose vitamin C injections might increase your chance of developing a kidney stone. People who’ve had kidney stones in the past may have a greater risk.

When any injection is given, there is also risk for infection.

Vitamin C can interact with some other medications.

Vitamin C can make your urine more acidic. In some cases, this can change how your body gets rid of certain medication. This in turn can change levels of some medications in your body and result in decreased effectiveness or increased side effects. Some of these medications include:

• fluphenazine (Prolixin)
• magnesium salicylate (Novasal)
• mexiletine (Mexitil)
• salsalate

There is some concern that high-dose vitamin C might make radiation therapy and some chemotherapy drugs less effective. However, this is controversial, and more evidence is needed.

If you’re taking other medications or being treated for cancer, talk with your doctor before taking high-dose vitamin C injections.

Vitamin C injections are typically only used for correcting a vitamin C deficiency when oral supplements can’t be taken.

High-dose vitamin C injections are used for off-label conditions, especially cancer. Some researchers think that vitamin C injections can make chemotherapy work better or prevent some chemotherapy side effects. There is some research that suggests vitamin C injections might help reduce side effects and improve quality of life. More research is needed to determine if vitamin C can help fight cancer.

Some people use vitamin C injections for weight loss. However, there’s no scientific support for this use.

Talk with your doctor before using vitamin C injections.

Last medically reviewed on June 28, 2018

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Ascorbic acid – ascorbic acid injection solution. (2018).
  dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a1bd3cf4-bc9d-4c86-861c-7c708daab07f
• Bazzan AJ, et al. (2018). Retrospective evaluation of clinical experience with intravenous ascorbic acid in patients with cancer [Abstract].
  journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1534735418775809
• High-dose vitamin C (PDQ) – health professional version. (2017).
  cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/vitamin-c-pdq
• Jacobs C, et al. (2015). Is there a role for oral or intravenous ascorbate (vitamin C) in treating patients with cancer? DOI:
  10.1634/theoncologist.2014-0381
• Johnston CS. (2005). Strategies for healthy weight loss: From vitamin C to the glycemic response. DOI:
  10.1080/07315724.2005.10719460
• Padayatty S, et al. (2006). Intravenously administered vitamin C as a cancer therapy: Three cases. DOI:
  10.1503/cmaj.050346
• Vitamin C. (2015).
  lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-C
• Vitamin C. (2018).
  ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Dec 8, 2018

Written By

the Healthline Medical Network

Edited By

Phoebe Campbell

Jun 28, 2018

Medically Reviewed By

Alan Carter, PharmD

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. D. — By the Healthline Medical Network — Updated on December 8, 2018

Read this next

• Everything You Need to Know About Doing a Vitamin C Flush

  Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT

  Is a vitamin C flush, also called an ascorbate cleanse, really worth all the hype? And is it safe? Here’s what you need to know.

  READ MORE

• 10 Supplements for Women: Do You Need Them (and Which Ones)?

  By Jillian Kubala, MS, RD

  Women have specific nutrient needs that change throughout their life span. This article covers vitamins for women and explains vitamin sources…

  READ MORE

• 5 Reasons Why Vitaminwater Is a Bad Idea

  By Adda Bjarnadottir, MS, RDN (Ice)

  Vitaminwater is a beverage brand owned by the Coca-Cola company. It is marketed as “healthy,” but is actually high in added sugar and very harmful.

  READ MORE

• Are Weight Loss Medications Effective? A Dietitian Explains

  By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD and Kris Gunnars, BSc

  This is a detailed, evidence-based review of the most popular weight loss medications and supplements on the market today.

  READ MORE

• 11 Best Postnatal Vitamins of 2023, According to a Dietitian

  Postnatal vitamins are crucial to feeling your best after giving birth. See the postnatal supplements our dietitian selected as the best of 2023.

  READ MORE

• When Is the Best Time to Take Vitamin D? Morning or Night?

  By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD

  As many people are deficient in vitamin D, taking a supplement is very common. This article explores the best time to take vitamin D to maximize its…

  READ MORE

• Vitamin D Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

  By Lisa Wartenberg, MFA, RD, LD and Franziska Spritzler

  Vitamin D deficiency is incredibly common in Western countries. This article explains some of the symptoms and causes of vitamin D deficiency, as well…

  READ MORE

A dropper with vitamins, how useful is the procedure, are there any contraindications

Reading time: 1 min.

In medicine, droppers have been actively used for quite a long time in order to introduce various nutrients into the patient’s body. This method is used in cases where a person cannot eat on his own and he has a deficiency of useful trace elements. Also, droppers are used for anesthesia and the introduction of other drugs.

But recently, this attribute familiar to medical workers has been used in various beauty centers. Many people agree to the “vitamin drip” procedure in order to conduct a large-scale recovery of the body. Indeed, according to the authors of the technique, the patient receives an intravenous infusion of a whole group of vitamins, which gives a powerful multivitamin effect on the body.

You can learn more about the rules of nutrition, the principles of forming a reasonable diet at 7-module certification course in dietetics and nutrition from the leading nutritionist Oleg Iryshkin.

The procedure itself is as follows: the patient sits in a comfortable chair, takes a dropper, while doing his own business, and at this moment his health is actively strengthening. From the outside, it certainly sounds very attractive. Indeed, in fact, beauty and health come to watch the series in very comfortable conditions. But if you look at this procedure more critically, a large number of questions arise.

To begin with, it is worth noting that to date there is not a single study that would confirm the incredible effect of vitamin cocktails. The only thing all the authors agree on is the powerful placebo effect. At the physiological level, there are no changes in the state of the body, but the belief in the miraculous effect of intravenous vitamin therapy leads to the fact that many patients feel better.

Thus, a positive effect on the psychological health of the patient can be noted. But the problem is that vitamin cocktails can not only be harmless placebos, but also a source of various diseases. For example, if the dosage of a vitamin A cocktail is incorrectly calculated, the liver can be seriously affected. And for people with chronic diseases, such procedures can be completely fatal. So, people with cardiovascular diseases can earn a heart attack due to a vitamin dropper.

Free training advice

Our consultants are always ready to tell you about all the details!

I agree to the processing of personal data

Free call

You may also be interested in other materials on our site:

The bill on attacks on medical professionals passed in the second reading

Sound waves can help with varicose veins

Nerve transplantation can restore the mobility of paralyzed hands

By the end of 2022, the drug reimbursement system will be launched

Three free webinars for obstetricians and gynecologists will be held at AMO

Like the material?

Your mail

I agree with the privacy policy

Don’t forget to subscribe to our Yandex. Zen!

prices for a dropper with vitamins in Moscow City at the Skin Art clinic

Composition of the dropper

The composition of the vitamin dropper offered by the Skin Art clinic includes:

• succinic acid;
• Riboxin;
• B vitamins;
• nicotinamide.

Consider each active component in more detail.

Succinic acid

Succinic acid is an organic substance widely used for medical purposes. It helps to reduce tissue hypoxia, improves metabolism and energy exchange. In combination with other components, we have a rejuvenating and restorative effect.

Riboxin

Riboxin (aka inosine) is a chemical compound whose effectiveness has been proven since Soviet times. The effect of Riboxin is directed, first of all, to the cardiovascular system. They are used in the treatment of ischemic diseases, myocarditis, arrhythmias, recovery after myocardial infarction. It has a beneficial effect on the condition of the liver and urinary tract.

Vitamins of group B

Vitamins from group B support the nervous system, blood vessels and heart, natural immunity. Their lack in the body, in addition, can lead to a deterioration in the condition of hair and nails.

Nicotinamide

Nicotinamide is a vitamin compound based on nicotinic acid. It is actively involved in all metabolic and chemical processes. Its use improves blood microcirculation, lowers cholesterol and removes toxins. In combination with other substances, nicotinamide improves skin condition and fights diseases of the nervous system.

How the procedure works

Before the procedure, the specialist examines and consults the patient, determines the required dose and number of sessions. The drug is administered intravenously, through a dropper. Complete sterility is ensured, ampoules and instruments are opened in front of you. Anesthesia is not required.

Average duration 30 to 40 minutes.

The effect of vitamin droppers

The effect of intravenous administration of vitamins is manifested in the form of improved sleep and general well-being, a surge of strength and energy, improved mood. It can be seen already during the first procedure. The full course has a more complex effect:

• strengthening immunity and improving health in general, at the cellular level;
• detoxification;
• acceleration of metabolism;
• improvement of skin, hair and nails;
• normalization of the nervous and cardiovascular systems.

Number of sessions

The total number of procedures and the frequency of repetition of the course, in order to be as effective as possible, is prescribed by the doctor individually after consultation, studying complaints and medical history. Typically, a course appointment is required twice a year.

Indications for the procedure

• Intense physical, mental stress, active training.
• Chronic diseases.
• Overwork and chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Sleep disorders.
• General weakness, lethargy, lack of vigor.
• Heart rhythm disorders.