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Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) may be used to prevent low body levels (deficiency) of this vitamin. Ascorbic acid is needed to maintain the health of skin, cartilage, teeth, and blood vessels, and to promote proper bone growth. Most people who eat a normal diet do not need extra ascorbic acid.Vitamin C deficiency may occur in certain health conditions (e.g., poor nutrition, diet lacking citrus fruit/vegetables, alcoholism). Serious ascorbic acid deficiency may cause a condition called scurvy, resulting in bleeding problems, tooth loss, and heart problems, among others.Ascorbic acid is also used to help preserve the health of body cells (as an antioxidant).
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| Overview |
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How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
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Ascorbic Acid
Uses
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) may be used to prevent low body levels (deficiency) of this vitamin. Ascorbic acid is needed to maintain the health of skin, cartilage, teeth, and blood vessels, and to promote proper bone growth. Most people who eat a normal diet do not need extra ascorbic acid.Vitamin C deficiency may occur in certain health conditions (e.g., poor nutrition, diet lacking citrus fruit/vegetables, alcoholism). Serious ascorbic acid deficiency may cause a condition called scurvy, resulting in bleeding problems, tooth loss, and heart problems, among others.Ascorbic acid is also used to help preserve the health of body cells (as an antioxidant).
Notes
- If your doctor has prescribed this vitamin, do not share it with others.This product is not a substitute for a proper diet.
- Remember that it is best to get your vitamins from healthy foods.
- Ascorbic acid is commonly found in citrus fruit, tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli, among others.
- Consult your doctor, pharmacist, or nutritionist for more details.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
- Do not store in the bathroom.
- Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
How To Use
- Take this vitamin by mouth, usually 1 to 2 times daily.
- If this vitamin is prescribed by your doctor, take exactly as directed.
- Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of water.
- Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking a dose.
- If you are taking the chewable tablets, chew them thoroughly.
- If you are taking the delayed-release capsules or tablets, swallow them whole.
- Do not crush or chew them.
- If you are taking the powder, mix it thoroughly in the proper amount of liquid and stir well.
- Drink all of the liquid immediately.
- Do not prepare a supply for future use.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 your doctor has prescribed this product to treat a specific problem, tell him/her if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
- Heartburn, tiredness, flushing, headache, trouble sleeping, and sleepiness may occur.
- The most common side effects with higher doses (3 grams or more daily) are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps/bloating, and gas.
- Chewable tablets or powders for dissolving in liquid may cause tooth enamel damage over time.If your doctor has directed you to take this medication, remember that he or she 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.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
- However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before taking ascorbic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.This vitamin should not be used if you have certain medical conditions.
- Before using this vitamin, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: a rare red blood cell/enzyme problem (hereditary non-spherocytic hemolytic anemia).Before using this vitamin, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a certain blood/body iron disease (hemochromatosis).If you use large doses (more than 3 grams a day), also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have high levels of a certain waste product in the urine (oxalate).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.
Missed Dose
- 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 and resume your usual dosing schedule.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug Interactions
- Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them.
- Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: high-dose aspirin (more than 3 grams a day).Tell your doctor or pharmacist of other vitamins you may be taking that contain ascorbic acid.This vitamin may interfere with certain laboratory tests (urine/blood glucose, acetaminophen drug levels).
- Tell all your doctors and laboratory personnel that you are taking this vitamin.
- If you have diabetes, consult your doctor or pharmacist for the correct way to test your blood sugar.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement 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.
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