Vit c drip. High Dose Vitamin C IV Therapy: Benefits, Applications, and Safety

30.12.202020.07.2023 by alexxlab

How does intravenous vitamin C differ from oral supplements. What are the key benefits of high-dose vitamin C therapy. Is IV vitamin C safe and effective for cancer patients. How can vitamin C IV drips boost energy and immune function.

Содержание

The Power of Intravenous Vitamin C: Unlocking Maximum Bioavailability

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions. While many people obtain vitamin C through diet and oral supplements, intravenous (IV) administration offers a unique advantage. When delivered via IV, vitamin C achieves 100% bioavailability, compared to only about 18% absorption from oral intake. This significant difference in absorption rates makes high-dose vitamin C IV therapy an attractive option for those seeking to maximize the nutrient’s potential benefits.

But why is bioavailability so important? The higher the bioavailability, the more effectively the body can utilize the vitamin C for various physiological processes. This enhanced absorption allows for the delivery of much higher doses than would be possible through oral supplementation, potentially leading to more pronounced therapeutic effects.

Collagen Synthesis: Strengthening the Body’s Structural Framework

One of the primary functions of vitamin C is its role in collagen production. Collagen is a vital structural protein found throughout the body, providing support for skin, blood vessels, ligaments, and bones. High-dose vitamin C therapy can significantly boost collagen synthesis, offering potential benefits for various aspects of health and appearance.

Skin Health and Anti-Aging Effects

Increased collagen production can lead to improved skin elasticity and reduced signs of aging. IV vitamin C therapy may help:

Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Improve skin texture and tone
Accelerate wound healing
Protect against sun damage

Strengthening Connective Tissues

Beyond skin health, enhanced collagen synthesis can benefit the entire musculoskeletal system. High-dose vitamin C may help:

Strengthen tendons and ligaments, reducing the risk of sports injuries
Support bone health and potentially aid in fracture healing
Improve the integrity of blood vessel walls, reducing the risk of aneurysms

Boosting Energy Production and Combating Fatigue

Feeling constantly tired? High-dose vitamin C therapy might offer a solution. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in energy production within our cells, particularly in the synthesis of carnitine. This molecule acts as a shuttle, transporting fats into the mitochondria – our cellular powerhouses – for energy production.

A 2011 study demonstrated the potential of high-dose vitamin C in combating fatigue. Participants receiving 10 grams of IV vitamin C experienced reduced fatigue within two hours, with effects lasting up to 24 hours. This research suggests that IV vitamin C therapy could be a valuable tool for individuals struggling with chronic fatigue or those seeking a natural energy boost.

Potential Benefits for Various Conditions

The energy-boosting effects of high-dose vitamin C may be particularly beneficial for:

Chronic fatigue syndrome patients
Individuals recovering from illness or surgery
Athletes looking to enhance performance and recovery
Those experiencing stress-induced fatigue

Enhancing Immune Function: A Powerful Ally Against Infections

Vitamin C is renowned for its immune-boosting properties, and high-dose IV therapy takes this effect to the next level. The nutrient may have direct antimicrobial effects against bacteria, viruses, and potentially even cancer cells (though more research is needed in this area).

At very high doses, vitamin C can generate hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) within the body. This mechanism may contribute to its potential antimicrobial effects. Additionally, vitamin C has been shown to enhance the production and function of various immune cells, helping the body mount a more effective defense against pathogens.

Historical and Current Applications

The use of high-dose vitamin C for immune support has a fascinating history:

Before the polio vaccine, intramuscular vitamin C injections were used with some success in treating polio
Recent animal studies have shown that vitamin C supplementation can increase the production of anti-influenza cytokines, improving the ability to fight viral infections
Research suggests that vitamin C’s antioxidant properties may help reduce the severity of symptoms associated with H1N1 influenza virus

Antioxidant Power: Protecting Cells from Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, can damage cellular structures and contribute to various health issues. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), offering protection to important cellular components like collagen, proteins, and DNA.

This antioxidant effect is particularly valuable in situations of high stress, chronic illness, and during infections. By reducing oxidative damage, high-dose vitamin C therapy may help:

Support overall cellular health
Slow down aging processes at the cellular level
Reduce inflammation throughout the body
Enhance the body’s ability to cope with physical and emotional stress

Vitamin C and Cancer: Exploring Potential Benefits and Controversies

The role of vitamin C in cancer treatment remains a topic of ongoing research and debate within the medical community. While no large-scale studies have definitively concluded its effectiveness, several interesting findings have emerged:

Safety and Tolerability

High-dose vitamin C therapy, even at doses exceeding 100 grams, has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated in most individuals. Concerns about kidney stone formation (due to increased oxalic acid) have been largely dispelled by recent studies, which demonstrate that oxalic acid levels remain well-controlled even with high vitamin C doses.

Potential Mechanisms of Action

At high doses, vitamin C may exhibit pro-oxidant effects, as opposed to its usual antioxidant function. This occurs through interactions with oxygen and iron, leading to the formation of hydrogen peroxide in tissues. This mechanism is of particular interest in cancer research, as hydrogen peroxide is used by immune cells to destroy foreign invaders and potentially cancer cells.

Supportive Care During Cancer Treatment

While the direct anti-cancer effects of vitamin C remain under investigation, high-dose IV therapy may offer benefits for cancer patients in terms of quality of life and managing treatment side effects:

Reducing fatigue associated with chemotherapy and radiation
Alleviating nausea and vomiting
Supporting immune function during treatment
Potentially enhancing the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs (though more research is needed)

It’s important to note that cancer patients should always consult with their oncology team before pursuing vitamin C therapy, as it may interact with certain treatments or be contraindicated in some cases.

Practical Considerations: Administering High-Dose Vitamin C IV Therapy

For those considering high-dose vitamin C therapy, several important factors should be taken into account:

Medical Supervision and Testing

High-dose IV vitamin C should always be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Prior to treatment, certain tests are typically required:

G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) enzyme test 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 therapy can vary depending on the individual’s health status and treatment goals. Some common approaches include:

Weekly treatments for general health maintenance and immune support
More frequent treatments (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 therapy may cause mild side effects in some individuals, such as:

Temporary feelings of lightheadedness or fatigue
Mild nausea or headache
Dry mouth or thirst

Certain medical conditions may preclude the use of high-dose vitamin C therapy, including:

Kidney disease or a history of kidney stones
Hemochromatosis or other iron storage disorders
G6PD deficiency

Beyond Cancer: Other Potential Applications of High-Dose Vitamin C Therapy

While much attention has been focused on vitamin C’s potential role in cancer treatment, high-dose IV therapy may offer benefits for a wide range of other health conditions:

Cardiovascular Health

Vitamin C’s role in collagen production and its antioxidant properties may contribute to improved cardiovascular health by:

Supporting the integrity of blood vessel walls
Potentially lowering blood pressure
Reducing oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system

Neurological Conditions

Emerging research suggests that high-dose vitamin C may have neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting conditions such as:

Alzheimer’s disease
Parkinson’s disease
Multiple sclerosis
Stroke recovery

Autoimmune Disorders

The immune-modulating effects of vitamin C may offer support for individuals with autoimmune conditions, potentially helping to:

Reduce inflammation
Modulate immune system activity
Alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus

Stress and Mental Health

High-dose vitamin C therapy may have positive effects on mental health and stress management by:

Supporting adrenal gland function
Potentially reducing cortisol levels
Improving mood and cognitive function

As research in these areas continues to evolve, high-dose vitamin C therapy may emerge as a valuable complementary treatment option for a diverse range of health conditions.

The Future of High-Dose Vitamin C Therapy: Research Directions and Potential Breakthroughs

As interest in high-dose vitamin C therapy continues to grow, researchers are exploring new applications and refining our understanding of its mechanisms of action. Some exciting areas of ongoing research include:

Personalized Medicine Approaches

Scientists are investigating how individual genetic variations may influence the effectiveness of high-dose vitamin C therapy. This research could lead to more tailored treatment protocols, optimizing outcomes for each patient based on their unique genetic profile.

Combination Therapies

Exploring the potential synergistic effects of combining high-dose vitamin C with other nutrients or therapeutic modalities is an area of active research. This approach may enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment for various conditions.

Advanced Delivery Methods

While IV administration currently offers the highest bioavailability, researchers are exploring new delivery methods that could make high-dose vitamin C therapy more accessible and convenient. These may include:

Liposomal formulations for improved oral absorption
Transdermal delivery systems
Targeted nanoparticle delivery for specific tissues or conditions

Expanding Applications in Chronic Disease

As our understanding of the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in chronic diseases deepens, researchers are investigating the potential of high-dose vitamin C therapy in conditions such as:

Diabetes and metabolic disorders
Chronic respiratory diseases
Inflammatory bowel diseases
Age-related macular degeneration

The future of high-dose vitamin C therapy holds great promise, with ongoing research potentially unlocking new applications and refining existing protocols to maximize its therapeutic potential.

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:

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)
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)
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)
High dose IV vitamin C may improve mood and energy for patients undergoing cancer treatment using other modalities. (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

Mussini E, Hutton JJ, Udenfriend S. Collagen proline hydroxylase in wound healing, granuloma formation, scurvy, and growth. Science. 157:927-9.
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).
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.
Uchide N, Toyoda H. Antioxidant therapy as a potential approach to severe influenza-associated complications. Molecules, 16(3), 2032-2052.
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.
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.
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.

Benefits of High-Dose Vitamin C

What is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant in the body. It increases collagen production and is essential for boosting the immune system. It also plays a crucial role in preventing cell damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cells, causing illness and aging. High levels of vitamin C have been associated with a lowered risk of heart disease, hypertension, and stroke. Humans, unlike some animals, cannot synthesize vitamin C by themselves, so it must be ingested in another manner. Luckily it is easy enough to find in dietary supplements, IV infusions, and is readily available in many foods. Vitamin C is abundant in fruits and vegetables such as citrus, guavas, strawberries, bell peppers, kale, etc.

IV or Oral Supplements?

High doses of vitamin C taken orally do not have the same effect as an intravenous dose because much of it cannot be harnessed by the body and is expelled through urine, making it an ineffective method. The body regulates the intestinal absorption of vitamin C. Taking a high-dose of intravenous vitamin C increases the bioavailability that the body can use for biological processes such as healing itself. When it is infused directly into the bloodstream, it bypasses the digestive and metabolic system and has a 100% absorption rate by cells.

Benefits of High-Dose Vitamin C IV Therapy

Vitamin C has long been recognized as a potent vitamin and antioxidant that can aid with a myriad of health problems and promote healing in the body. High-dose vitamin C IV therapy is an ideal way to boost the body’s immune system and have the optimum amount of this powerful antioxidant. Vitamin infusions are a great way to prevent illness, treat infections, and acute or chronic health conditions.

Wound Healing

Vitamin C helps the body form and maintain connective tissue, bones, skin, and blood vessels. This means that high doses of vitamin C infused intravenously can aid the body in healing wounds, cuts, and scrapes on skin faster. This is also because vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps repair tissue and reduces damage caused by inflammation.

Better Skin

The high antioxidant properties and its role in collagen production make vitamin C an essential component of skin health. The free radical fighting powers of vitamin C make it necessary for keeping skin from premature aging and keeping wrinkles away. When taken in an IV infusion, it is doubly beneficial because the added fluids in an IV serve to hydrate the skin and improve the absorption of vitamin C.

Strong Immune System

People with high levels of vitamin c in their immune system are better equipped to fight off infections such as a cold or the flu. Vitamin C also encourages the production of white blood cells that the body uses to protect against disease. High-doses of vitamin C may not be able to “cure” a cold but it has been shown as helpful in reducing the length and severity of the illness. Low levels of vitamin C have been linked to diseases such as scurvy.

Improved Iron Absorption

Iron is an essential nutrient for transporting oxygen throughout the body and for making red blood cells. Vitamin C aids in transforming Iron that isn’t absorbed into a form that can be used by the body. This can help reduce the risk of anemia in people with iron deficiency. In one study published on PubMed, taking vitamin C with a meal increased iron absorption by 67%.

Improved Mood

People with a vitamin C deficiency can feel fatigued and depressed, but even those with adequate vitamin C levels can experience these moods. A high-dose of IV vitamin C can significantly improve mood by fighting against free radicals that cause oxidative stress. Oxidative stress in the body can cause neuropsychological disorders like depression and anxiety.

Reduced Lead Toxicity

An increase in lead in the body has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and lead poisoning, but a megadose of vitamin C is an effective treatment in repairing the damage. Studies on both children and adults have shown that a higher vitamin C intake results in lowered blood lead levels.

High Blood Pressure

One in three Americans suffers from high blood pressure, which can put the body at risk for heart disease. Hypertension, another name for high blood pressure, can be reduced by taking high-doses of vitamin C. Vitamin C has been shown to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults.

Cancer Therapy Aid

High doses of vitamin C protect the body from oxidative stress that can damage cells. Researchers have found that using vitamin C in conjunction with chemotherapy and other cancer rehabs may be able to improve the effectiveness of these treatments. Further research is still being conducted on this therapy.

As shown by these benefits above, vitamin C is a super vitamin that can help the body in multiple ways. Much of modern medicine focuses on reacting to a disease or a sickness but doesn’t focus on the best way to avoid getting sick – prevention! Vitamin C aids in the prevention of diseases, aging-related illnesses, and is also helpful in repairing the damage that has already occurred to cells.

Vitamin C can be found in our:

Super Drip – an all-inclusive drip with essential vitamins, amino, and electrolytes.

Hangover Drip – Helps with symptoms of a hangover, including nausea and dehydration.

Weight Loss Drip – Formulated to help with weight management, along with healthy food choices and exercise.

Immunity Drip – Fortifies against infections and diseases such as the flu.

Myers Cocktail – The original IV Infusion. It is perfectly formulated to help with balance, wellbeing, focus, and clarity at the cellular level.

Flawless Drip – Promotes beautiful, healthy, youthful-looking skin, hair, and nails.

Jet Lag Drip – Addresses symptoms associated with traveling across time zones

To schedule an appointment, please click here or call/text 213.262.9665

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

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.