Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that must be consumed in the diet. Good sources include fresh fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits.

Vitamin C is needed for the body to develop and function properly. It plays an important role in immune function. Most experts recommend getting vitamin C from the diet rather than taking supplements. Fresh oranges and fresh-squeezed orange juice are good sources.

Historically, vitamin C was used for preventing and treating scurvy. Today, people most commonly use vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. It’s also used for autism, breast cancer, heart disease and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using vitamin C for COVID-19.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Effective for

• Vitamin C deficiency. Taking vitamin C by mouth or injecting it as a shot prevents and treats vitamin C deficiency, including scurvy. Also, taking vitamin C can reverse problems associated with scurvy. Only a healthcare provider can inject vitamin C as a shot.

Possibly Effective for

• Low levels of red blood cells in people with a long-term illness (anemia of chronic disease). Taking vitamin C supplements by mouth might help manage anemia in people undergoing dialysis.
• Irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation). Taking vitamin C by mouth or by IV before and after heart surgery helps prevent irregular heartbeat after heart surgery. IV products can only be given by a healthcare provider.
• Emptying the colon before a colonoscopy. A specific fluid containing vitamin C (MoviPrep, Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc.) has been approved by the FDA for bowel preparation before a colonoscopy. Some bowel preparations involve drinking 4 liters of medicated fluid. If vitamin C is included in the fluid, only 2 liters are needed.
• Common cold. Taking 1-3 grams of vitamin C by mouth might shorten the course of a cold by 1 to 1.5 days. But taking vitamin C does not appear to prevent colds.
• Limb pain that usually occurs after an injury (complex regional pain syndrome). Taking vitamin C by mouth after surgery or injury seems to prevent complex regional pain syndrome from developing.
• Recovery from laser skin therapy. Applying a skin cream containing vitamin C might decrease skin redness after laser skin therapy for scar and wrinkle removal.
• Airway infections caused by exercise. Taking vitamin C by mouth before heavy physical exercise, such as a marathon or army training, might prevent upper airway infections that can occur after heavy exercise.
• High cholesterol. Taking vitamin C by mouth might reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”) cholesterol in people with high cholesterol.
• High blood pressure. Taking vitamin C by mouth might help lower systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure reading) by a small amount. But it does not seem to lower diastolic pressure (the bottom number).
• Lead poisoning. Consuming vitamin C in the diet seems to lower blood levels of lead.
• Reduced benefit of nitrate therapy that happens when nitrates are used all day (nitrate tolerance). Taking vitamin C by mouth seems to help drugs for chest pain, such as nitroglycerin, to work longer.
• Pain after surgery. Taking vitamin C by mouth or by IV might reduce pain during the first 24 hours after surgery. But it’s unclear if taking vitamin C by mouth can reduce pain during the first 6 weeks after surgery. IV products can only be given by a healthcare provider.
• Wrinkled skin. Applying skin creams containing vitamin C seems to improve the appearance of wrinkled skin. Apply a vitamin C patch also seems to help reduce wrinkles.

Possibly Ineffective for

• Short-term swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs (acute bronchitis). Taking vitamin C by mouth does not seem to have any effect on bronchitis.
• Asthma. Taking vitamin C by mouth doesn’t seem to prevent asthma or improve symptoms in people who already have asthma.
• Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis). Taking vitamin C by mouth does not seem to prevent atherosclerosis from becoming worse in most people with this condition.
• Bladder cancer. Taking vitamin C by mouth does not seem to prevent bladder cancer or reduce bladder cancer-related deaths.
• Heart disease. Taking vitamin C by mouth does not prevent heart disease or reduce death due to heart disease.
• Colon cancer, rectal cancer. Taking vitamin C by mouth does not seem to prevent cancer in the colon or rectum.
• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Taking high-dose vitamin C by mouth does not seem to speed up recovery from COVID-19 in people who aren’t in the hospital. Giving vitamin C by mouth or IV to people who are in the hospital with severe COVID-19 might have some benefit, but more studies are needed to say for sure.
• Death of an unborn or premature baby. Taking vitamin C by mouth, alone or with other supplements, during pregnancy doesn’t prevent death of an unborn or premature baby.
• Fractures. Taking vitamin C by mouth does not seem to improve function, symptoms, or healing rates in people with a wrist fracture.
• A digestive tract infection that can lead to ulcers (Helicobacter pylori or H. pylori). Taking vitamin C by mouth along with medicines used to treat H. pylori infection doesn’t seem to get rid of H. pylori faster than taking the medicines alone.
• A group of inherited disorders that leads to muscle weakness and numbness in the arms and legs. Taking vitamin C by mouth for one or two years does not seem to prevent nerve damage in people with these disorders.
• Eye damage in people taking drugs called interferons (interferon-related retinopathy). Taking vitamin C by mouth does not seem to prevent eye damage in people receiving interferon therapy for liver disease.
• Cancer of the white blood cells (leukemia). Taking vitamin C by mouth doesn’t seem to prevent leukemia or death due to leukemia.
• Lung cancer. Taking vitamin C by mouth, alone or with vitamin E, doesn’t seem to prevent lung cancer or death due to lung cancer.
• The most serious type of skin cancer (melanoma). Taking vitamin C by mouth, alone or with vitamin E, doesn’t prevent melanoma or death due to melanoma.
• Miscarriage. Taking vitamin C by mouth, alone or with other supplements, during pregnancy does not prevent miscarriage.
• Death from any cause. Taking vitamin C by mouth along with other antioxidants does not seem to prevent death.
• Pancreatic cancer. Taking vitamin C by mouth together with beta-carotene plus vitamin E does not seem to prevent pancreatic cancer.
• A pregnancy complication marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine (pre-eclampsia). Taking vitamin C by mouth with vitamin E during pregnancy does not prevent high blood pressure and protein in the urine during pregnancy.
• Preterm birth. Taking vitamin C by mouth, alone or with other supplements, during pregnancy does not prevent preterm birth.
• Prostate cancer. Taking vitamin C by mouth does not seem to prevent prostate cancer.
• Skin damage caused by radiation therapy (radiation dermatitis). Applying a vitamin C solution to the skin does not prevent skin problems caused by radiation treatments.
• Blood infection (sepsis). Giving vitamin C by IV with or without thiamine does not reduce the risk of dying or the need for supportive treatment in people with sepsis. IV products can only be given by a healthcare provider.
• Infants with birth weight below the 10^th percentile. Taking vitamin C by mouth, alone or with other supplements, during pregnancy does not reduce the chance of giving birth to an infant with a low birth weight.
• Stillbirth. Taking vitamin C by mouth, alone or with other supplements, during pregnancy does not reduce the chance of having a stillbirth.

There is interest in using vitamin C for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Vitamin C is likely safe for most people. In some people, vitamin C might cause side effects such as stomach cramps, nausea, heartburn, and headache. The chance of getting these side effects increases with higher doses. Taking more than 2000 mg daily is possibly unsafe and may cause kidney stones and severe diarrhea. In people who have had a kidney stone, taking amounts greater than 1000 mg daily increases the risk of getting more kidney stones.

When applied to the skin: Vitamin C is likely safe for most people. It might cause irritation and tingling.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Vitamin C is likely safe to take by mouth during pregnancy in amounts no greater than 2000 mg daily for those 19 years and older and 1800 mg daily for those 14-18 years old. Taking too much vitamin C during pregnancy can cause problems for the newborn baby. Vitamin C is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in excessive amounts.

Infants and children: Vitamin C is likely safe when taken by mouth appropriately. Vitamin C is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in amounts higher than 400 mg daily for children 1-3 years, 650 mg daily for children 4-8 years, 1200 mg daily for children 9-13 years, and 1800 mg daily for adolescents 14-18 years.

Alcohol use disorder: People who regularly use alcohol, especially those who have other illnesses, often have vitamin C deficiency. These people might need to be treated for a longer time than normal to restore vitamin C levels to normal.

Cancer: Cancerous cells collect high concentrations of vitamin C. Until more is known, only use high doses of vitamin C under the direction of your oncologist.

Chronic kidney disease: Long-term kidney disease might increase the risk of vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C supplements might also increase the amount of oxalate in the urine in some people. Too much oxalate in the urine can increase the risk of kidney failure in people with kidney disease.

A metabolic deficiency called “glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase” (G6PD) deficiency: Large amounts of vitamin C can cause red blood cells to break in people with this condition. Avoid excessive amounts of vitamin C.

Kidney stones: Large amounts of vitamin C can increase the chance of getting kidney stones. Do not take vitamin C in amounts greater than those found in basic multivitamins.

Smoking and chewing tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco lowers vitamin C levels. People who smoke or chew tobacco should consume more vitamin C in the diet.

Interactions ?

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Aluminum is found in most antacids. Vitamin C can increase how much aluminum the body absorbs. However, it is not clear if this interaction is a big concern. Take vitamin C two hours before or four hours after antacids.

• Vitamin C might decrease how quickly the body gets rid of estrogens. Taking vitamin C along with estrogens might increase the effects and side effects of estrogens.

• Large amounts of vitamin C might decrease how much fluphenazine is in the body. Taking vitamin C along with fluphenazine might decrease the effectiveness of fluphenazine.

• Vitamin C is an antioxidant. There is some concern that antioxidants might decrease the effects of some medications used for cancer. If you are taking medications for cancer, check with your healthcare provider before taking vitamin C.

• Taking niacin with vitamin C and other antioxidants can decrease the effects of niacin on good cholesterol levels. It is unknown if vitamin C alone decreases the effects of niacin on good cholesterol levels.

• Warfarin is used to slow blood clotting. Large amounts of vitamin C might decrease the effects of warfarin. Decreasing the effects of warfarin might increase the risk of clotting. Be sure to have your blood checked regularly. The dose of your warfarin might need to be changed.

• Taking large amounts of vitamin C along with indinavir might decrease how much indinavir stays in the body. It’s not clear if this interaction is a big concern.

• Vitamin C is an antioxidant. There is some concern that antioxidants might decrease the effects of medications used for cancer. If you are taking medications for cancer, check with your healthcare provider before taking vitamin C.

• Taking vitamin C along with levothyroxine might increase how much levothyroxine the body absorbs. This can increase the amount of levothyroxine in the body and increase its effects and side effects.

Minor Interaction

Be watchful with this combination

• The body breaks down acetaminophen to get rid of it. Large amounts of vitamin C can decrease how quickly the body breaks down acetaminophen. It is not clear if this interaction is a big concern.

• Aspirin is removed by the body through the kidneys and in the urine. Vitamin C might decrease how the body removes aspirin and could potentially increase the amount of aspirin in the body. But it’s not clear if this is a big concern.

• Vitamin C might decrease how quickly the body gets rid of choline magnesium trisalicylate. It is not clear if this interaction is a big concern.

• Vitamin C might decrease how quickly the body gets rid of salsalate. Taking vitamin C along with salsalate might cause too much salsalate in the body, and increase the effects and side effects of salsalate.

Dosing

Vitamin C is an important nutrient. Fresh fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, are good sources of vitamin C. The amount that should be consumed on a daily basis is called the recommended dietary allowance (RDA). For adult males, the RDA is 90 mg daily. For females 19 years and older, the RDA is 75 mg daily. While pregnant and breastfeeding, the RDA is 120 mg daily for people 19-50 years old. In children, the RDA depends on age.

Vitamin C is also available in supplements, combination products, liquids, lotions, creams, serums, sprays, and patches. Supplements have been used safely by adults in doses up to 2000 mg daily. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. © Therapeutic Research Faculty 2018.

Vitamin C oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

How to use Vitamin C 500 Mg Chewable Tablet

Take this vitamin by mouth with or without food, usually 1 to 2 times daily. Follow all directions on the product package, or take as directed by your doctor.

If you are taking the extended-release capsules, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew extended-release capsules or tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Swallow the whole tablet without crushing or chewing. Take this product with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

If you are taking the wafers or chewable tablets, chew them thoroughly and then swallow. If you are taking the lozenges, place the lozenge in your mouth and allow it to slowly dissolve.

If you are taking the powder, mix it thoroughly in the proper amount of liquid or soft food and stir well. Take all of the mixture right away. Do not prepare a supply for future use. If you are using the liquid form of this vitamin, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Use this vitamin regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps/pain, or heartburn may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: painful urination, pink/bloody urine.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking ascorbic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as peanut/soy), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this vitamin, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease (such as kidney stones), a certain enzyme deficiency (G6PD deficiency).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this vitamin has been found to be safe when used in recommended doses. Higher doses should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This vitamin passes into breast milk and is considered to be safe during breast-feeding when used in recommended doses. Consult your doctor for more information.

Consult your pharmacist or physician.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

This vitamin may interfere with certain lab tests (including certain urine glucose tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Vitamin C 500 Mg Chewable Tablet interact with other drugs you are taking?

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Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

This product is not a substitute for a proper diet. It is best to get your vitamins from healthy foods. Ascorbic acid is commonly found in citrus fruit (such as oranges), tomatoes, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli, among others. Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or nutritionist for more details.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Different brands of this vitamin have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Vitamin C 125 mg chewable tablet

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This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

Vitamin C 500 mg tablet

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This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

Vitamin C 250 mg tablet

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This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

Vitamin C 500 mg tablet

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This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

Vitamin C 1,000 mg tablet

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This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

Vitamin C 500 mg tablet

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This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

Vitamin C 125 mg chewable tablet

Color: orangeShape: fruitImprint:

This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

Vitamin C 500 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint:

This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

Vitamin C 1,000 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: oblongImprint:

This medicine is a orange, fruit, sugar-coated, orange, chewable tablet

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Vitamin C for colds and flu – benefits and properties

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is useful for metabolism, hormone production, protection against free radicals. It also helps the body fight infections – doctors prescribe vitamin C for colds and flu. Means based on it are used to prevent frequent SARS.

Ascorbic acid is needed by all organs and tissues. But the human body does not produce it and does not accumulate. Therefore, foods and preparations with a high vitamin content should be consumed daily. We will tell you where ascorbic acid is contained, how to choose and take the drug correctly.

General properties of vitamin C

Ascorbic acid is involved in the most important processes of the body:

● Synthesizes collagen – fibers that strengthen connective tissue. If there is enough vitamin C, the walls of blood vessels retain elasticity, and the skin remains youthful.

● Produces sex and adrenal hormones.

● It has an antioxidant effect – protects against reactive oxygen compounds that provoke aging and the development of malignant tumors.

● Strengthens the immune system. ¹

The lack of ascorbic acid (hypovitaminosis C) leads to fatigue, decreased performance, constant colds. And its pronounced deficiency (avitaminosis C) causes scurvy, which leads to anemia, affects the joints and gums. Vitamin deficiency is rare in developed countries, and hypovitaminosis is a common problem.

Vitamin C benefits for colds and flu

Ascorbic acid is often prescribed for the treatment and prevention of colds. It works in several directions at once:

● Increases immunity. Resistance to viruses cannot depend only on drugs – the body must be able to resist infections. Ascorbic acid affects all parts of the immune response: it promotes the production of antiviral interferons and antibodies.

● Reduces the impact of adverse factors leading to colds. Bad ecology creates an additional burden on the immune system. Vitamin C supports it by neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals and reduces the risk of developing diseases and exacerbations.

● Helps to bear the disease more easily.
Ascorbic acid for colds and flu has an anti-inflammatory effect, reduces intoxication of the body.

Unlike many prescription drugs, vitamin C is safe. It dissolves in water, is absorbed into the intestinal wall, and the excess is easily excreted from the body. The use of ascorbic acid practically does not cause side effects and overdose. ²

How to take vitamin C for a cold

Vitamin C must be taken daily. The daily dose is about 30–120 mg, but the exact dosage depends on the individual characteristics of the body, lifestyle, and medication. The maximum safe dose is 2-3 g.

Average daily requirement for ascorbic acid (mg): ^3.4.5

● Children – 30-60.

● Teenagers – 80.

● Adults – 70-100. The minimum dose of vitamin C required by pregnant women is 60 mg, while nursing mothers need 80 mg.

In higher doses of ascorbic acid need:

● smokers and people who drink alcohol;

● everyone who is on mono-diets;

● women taking combined hormonal contraceptives or undergoing estrogen therapy for menopause;

● patients who are treated for a long time with corticosteroids, acetylsalicylic acid, antibiotics, calcium preparations;

● Patients exposed to influenza and ARVI viruses;

● residents of latitudes with extremely cold or hot climates and those who are constantly exposed to hypothermia/overheating;

● Elderly – The dose depends on chronic diseases and their treatment.

To determine if you have hypovitaminosis and calculate an individual dose, take a blood test for vitamin C.

During the outbreak of SARS, vitamin C increases the body’s resistance. Studies have shown that a daily intake of 200 mg of ascorbic acid reduces the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections by 50%, and in those who are sick, it speeds up recovery. ⁶

For a quick recovery from a cold, symptomatic treatment or taking vitamins is not enough. It is important to use drugs directed specifically against the causative agent of the disease. With the viral nature of the disease – influenza, SARS – the patient is shown broad-spectrum antiviral drugs. An effective new agent that helps to suppress the action of a variety of pathogens that cause viral infections is Nobasit ^® Forte (INN enisamia iodide). Taking enisamium iodide in combination with ascorbic acid, the daily dosage of which is determined by the relevant instructions for medical use, increases the body’s resistance to SARS and influenza. ⁷

Vitamin C sources

Our body can get ascorbic acid from food and from vitamin preparations. Some people believe that pharmacy forms are less useful and less digestible, but this is not so.

What foods contain vitamin C

Vitamin C is rich in plant foods – fruits, berries, vegetables. Main sources of vitamin C (per 100 g of product): ⁸

● Sea buckthorn, currant – 200 mg;

● Kiwi – 180 mg;

● Dill – 100 mg;

● Cauliflower – 70 mg;

● Oranges, bell peppers – 60 m;

● Spinach – 55 mg;

● White cabbage, grapefruits – 45 mg;

● Sorrel – 43 mg;

● Lemons – 40 mg;

● Mandarin – 38 mg;

● Garlic – 30 mg;

● Radishes, tomatoes, onions, raspberries – 25 mg.

In order for the body to receive enough ascorbic acid, you can eat a lemon, or an orange, or 4-5 apples daily. A good source of the vitamin is freshly squeezed juices. To close the daily need for vitamin C, it is enough to drink 116 ml of lemon juice, 150 ml of orange, or 1 liter of apple. ⁹

Vitamin C is destroyed during heat treatment and long-term storage of fruits. In addition, with many diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, the use of raw fruits and vegetables is not recommended. An alternative is ready-made preparations with ascorbic acid.

How to choose a vitamin C supplement

In pharmacy vitamin preparations, the concentration of ascorbic acid is higher than in products.

Natural preparations are made from natural raw materials – rose hips, currant leaves, rowan berries. They are dried and crushed to make syrups. Dried fruits and leaves have a lower concentration of vitamin C, but do not contain auxiliary substances – sweeteners, dyes. Such components may have contraindications – allergies, some metabolic diseases.

Tablets and powders are synthesized artificially. However, they are just as safe and effective as natural ones – they repeat the processes of natural synthesis in the laboratory. They are more convenient to take and dose, but they also contain excipients that cause individual intolerance. Contraindications are indicated in the instructions for each drug.

Vitamin C is produced in tablets with glucose, as part of multivitamin complexes. Pure synthetic ascorbic acid without additives is also on sale – powder in sachets with a dosage of 2.5 g. Monopreparations (containing only ascorbic acid) are better to choose if you need an increased intake of vitamin C. Complex preparations contain the daily norm of all essential vitamins.

Precautions for use

Ascorbic acid is not recommended to be taken together or sequentially with certain antibiotics, warfarin, estrogens, vitamin B12, preparations with copper, selenium. Keep an interval of at least 2-3 hours between them.

Taking vitamin C reduces the effectiveness of:

● drugs against thrombosis – heparin, indirect anticoagulants;

● psychotropic drugs – neuroleptics;

● means based on alkaloids – some antitumor, antitussive, lowering blood pressure;

● biologically active additives – copper and selenium.

If you are taking these medications, talk to your doctor about taking vitamin C.

Refrain from high doses of vitamin C if you need to take a biochemical blood test. Ascorbic acid can distort the result of liver parameters, blood glucose ⁴ .

Contraindications

Vitamin C in doses greater than the daily dose is contraindicated in case of individual intolerance, thrombophlebitis and a tendency to thrombosis. To assess the risk of thrombotic complications, do a blood coagulogram.

Consultation with a doctor is required if the patient:

● diabetes mellitus;

● hereditary diseases – sideroblastic anemia, thalassemia, deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, hemochromatosis;

● tendency to form stones in the urinary system;

● increased secretion of the stomach – hyperacid gastritis, peptic ulcer;

● long-term treatment with anticoagulants;

● salt-free diet.

In these cases, taking vitamin C may worsen the condition.

Briefly about the main

➢ Vitamin C increases the body’s resistance to colds, supports immunity, helps prevent illness and alleviate its course.

Vitamin C is not synthesized or stored by the body, so it must be taken daily.

➢ To prevent deficiency of ascorbic acid, eat fresh fruits, vegetables and greens in summer, drink freshly squeezed juices, and from the beginning of autumn to the end of spring, include vitamin supplements in your diet.

➢ Canned juices and long-term storage fruits contain significantly less vitamin C than fresh foods.

➢ In the treatment of colds, increased dosages of vitamin C are needed. However, like any treatment, vitamin therapy requires consultation with a doctor.

¹ L.M. Zhitnikova Vitamin and mineral complexes in the prevention of influenza and SARS in adults // Medical business. – №3, 2012.

² Timirkhanova E. A., Abdullina G.M., Kulagina I.G. Vitamin C: classical ideas and new facts about the mechanisms of biological action // Vyatka Medical Bulletin. – No. 4, 2007.

³ Abaturov A.E. The effect of vitamins on the state of the immune system in children // Health of the child – No. 6 (9), 2007.

⁴ Ascorbic acid // Register of Medicines of Russia.

⁵ Esaulenko E.E., Eremina T.V., Basov A.A., Popov K.A., Shvets O.V., Volkova N.K. The role of rational nutrition to ensure a healthy lifestyle // International Journal of Applied and Basic Research – No. 4 (1), 2017.

⁶ Shikh E.V. Vitamins with antioxidant properties in the prevention and treatment of acute respiratory infections in children // Questions of modern pediatrics. – T.12, No. 4, 2013.

⁷ Pshenichnaya N.Yu., Bulgakova V.A., Volchkova E.V., Kareva E.N., Selkova E.P., Gorodin V.N. of viral infections in Russia // Therapeutic archive No. 11 – 2019.

⁸ Adyg-Tyulyush A.A., Kuular A.M. Vitamin C in drugs of synthetic and herbal origin // Natural Compounds and Human Health. – Irkutsk, 2020.

⁹ Kostenkov E.A., Zagainov M.A. The content of vitamin “C” in juices and juice-containing drinks. // Biological sciences – №2 (26), 2019.

About the product
Download instructions

for what it is needed, and instructions for the use of ascorbic acid

Published: 11.08.2021

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) was first synthesized about a hundred years ago – at 1932 year. At the same time, it was found that it was the lack of vitamin C that was the main cause of scurvy, which claimed the lives of a huge number of sailors. Later, many more discoveries were made related to ascorbic acid, and today this vitamin is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of a variety of diseases.

Signs of vitamin C deficiency

To maintain health, we need various vitamins, but ascorbic acid can rightfully be called one of the key micronutrients, since its deficiency often leads to negative consequences. Meanwhile, you can determine whether you have enough vitamin C, even by external signs. The main manifestations of ascorbic acid deficiency are ² :

• malaise, weakness, lethargy;
• dryness and pallor of the skin;
• the appearance of hematomas and abrasions, even with minor injuries due to increased fragility of blood vessels;
• slow wound healing;
• fragility of nails and hair;
• joint pain;
• frequent colds due to a decrease in the overall resistance of the body;
• soreness, swelling, bleeding of gums, in severe cases loosening and loss of teeth;
• low mood, tearfulness, tendency to depression.

A slight lack of ascorbic acid is called hypovitaminosis, but if you do not see a doctor in time, hypovitaminosis can turn into beriberi – an acute lack of vitamin C.

Causes of vitamin C deficiency

There are not so many reasons why ascorbic acid deficiency occurs. We list the main ones ³ :

1. Nutrition low in micronutrients. A meager low-calorie diet, mono-diets, eating disorders are the main causes of ascorbic acid deficiency. Residents of the northern regions are also at risk of vitamin deficiency, where there are interruptions in the supply of fresh vegetables and fruits.
2. Smoking. Smokers are deficient in many micronutrients, but especially vitamin C. They require higher doses of the vitamin than non-smokers to meet their need for ascorbic acid. In order to prevent hypovitaminosis, smokers are advised to take this micronutrient constantly – several courses a year with short breaks.
3. Tendency to colds. Ascorbic acid belongs to anti-infectious vitamins: it is involved in phagocytosis and the production of antibodies, increases the protective properties of the epithelium of the respiratory tract. With frequent colds, the body consumes more vitamin C than usual, which can lead to a deficiency of this micronutrient.
4. Taking certain medications. Ascorbic acid deficiency can develop with long-term use of certain drugs that prevent its absorption.
5. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. In chronic diseases of the digestive system, the absorption of vitamin C from food may be impaired. If you do not consult a doctor in time and do not monitor the level of ascorbic acid, hypovitaminosis may develop.

According to the Ministry of Health, pregnant and lactating women are also at risk for hypovitaminosis of ascorbic acid. To prevent vitamin deficiency states, they need to be constantly monitored by a doctor and take vitamin-mineral complexes for pregnant and lactating women.

Which vitamin C to choose?

Vitamin C is available in two forms: natural and synthetic. We get a natural micronutrient from vegetables, fruits, berries, herbs, a synthetic micronutrient – from dietary supplements. In the summer, when we consume enough foods rich in vitamin C, there is no point in taking it extra. However, starting from late autumn until the end of spring, supplementation with vitamin C is highly recommended ⁴ . There are few fresh vegetables and fruits at this time of the year, and thermally processed foods lose most of the micronutrients.

Dietary supplements with vitamin C can be divided into two large groups: some do not cause irritation of the gastric mucosa (potassium, calcium, sodium ascorbates), others can adversely affect the gastric epithelium (L-ascorbic acid). L-ascorbic acid is as close as possible to the natural form of vitamin C, but it is better not to take it for people with hypersensitivity of the stomach.

If we talk about the forms of release, then vitamin C is best absorbed in the form of powders and effervescent tablets. However, if for some reason these forms do not suit you, you can choose another one, for example, in capsules or tablets.

What are the best vitamin C supplements and how to choose them?

Evalar offers a wide range of dietary supplements with vitamin C. You can choose a single micronutrient in the form of effervescent tablets with a dosage of 250 to 2000 mg or choose one of the complex products, which we will discuss later.

Zinc with vitamin C is perhaps the best solution for increasing the body’s resistance to infections. These micronutrients not only work well together, but also complement each other’s action.

Zinc in this combination prevents the reproduction of the virus in the cell ⁵ , protects lymphocytes from destruction ⁶ . In addition, it has a positive effect on the functioning of the thymus gland, which is called the “heart of the immune system.” Vitamin C enhances the synthesis of interferon proteins, which are the first to fight back against viruses, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Effervescent tablets with beta-carotene, vitamins C and D can be an excellent immune support during the cold season and improve skin condition.

As we noted above, dry skin can be one of the signs of a lack of ascorbic acid. When the micronutrient deficiency is replenished, the condition of the skin is also normalized. Beta-carotene, or provitamin A, will also be helpful for those with skin problems, and it can also be a great aid in achieving an even tan. About the properties of vitamin D and its importance for the body, we also wrote repeatedly. Want to know more? Read the article “Vitamin D – the king of micronutrients.”

This amazing quartet will appeal to those who prefer complex products. Effervescent tablets with two trace elements and two vitamins can strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of developing colds. Also, the course intake of dietary supplements can improve the condition of the reproductive system, skin, nails and hair, maintain the health of the heart and blood vessels, which is especially important during the coronavirus pandemic.

Please note that biologically active complexes with beta-carotene and selenium have no analogues and are produced only by Evalar.

To compensate for the deficiency of micronutrients, it is enough for adults to take 1 effervescent tablet per day, after dissolving it in a glass of water. The duration of the prophylactic course is at least 1 month. If necessary, after a short break, the course can be repeated.

Other Evalar complexes with vitamin C

Vitamin C is also present in many other products of the Evalar company, for example, as part of the dietary supplement Elder Immunity, which, in addition to vitamin C, includes zinc and black elderberry juice, a natural activator of the immune system. By the way, dietary supplements with elderberry are very popular in the West, but in Russia they are produced only by the Evalar company.

Also, ascorbic acid is part of the complex of effervescent vitamins of group B, here it contributes to a better absorption of these micronutrients and enhances their effect.

The whole series of Evalar effervescent vitamins has excellent taste properties, includes only natural ingredients, has a high dissolution rate, and is easily digested. Products are made from high quality raw materials, do not contain preservatives and gluten.

How to take vitamin C correctly?

If you prefer to take your micronutrients in a single form, look no further than vitamin C in the form of calcium ascorbate, which is available in two dosages of 100mg and 900mg.

The product with a dosage of 100 mg is recommended for those who do not experience major problems with immunity, but want to compensate for vitamin C deficiency and protect themselves from hypovitaminosis. Dosage variant 900 mg will be relevant during the cold season, especially when the first symptoms of malaise appear or for quick recovery after an illness.

Products with a dosage of 1000 mg and above are best chosen after consultation with your doctor. For complete assimilation, it is desirable to divide the daily dose into three doses. It is highly undesirable to exceed the recommended daily allowances of vitamin C on a regular or long-term basis. The negative consequences of an overdose of vitamin C can be expressed in allergic reactions, impaired renal function, and thrombosis.

You will find detailed information about the composition, indications, contraindications and use of effervescent vitamins in the card of the corresponding product. Choose micronutrients only from reliable and trusted companies. Take vitamins and be healthy!

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¹ Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Discovery history. FBUZ “Center for Hygienic Education of the Population” of Rospotrebnadzor. Electronic resource: http://cgon.rospotrebnadzor.ru/content/ostalnoe/vitamin-s-askorbinovaya-kislota-istoriya-otkrytiya (request date 01/13/2022).
² MSD MANUAL Professional edition. Vitamin C deficiency. Authors: Larry E. Johnson , MD, PhD, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Content last modified Nov 2020. Online: https://www.