Vitamin C [Ascorbic acid]
Generic Details
Generic Name
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Other Names
- Ascorbic Acid
Drug Class
- Vitamin
Chemical Formula
C6H8O6
Molecular Weight
176.12 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Antioxidant
- Cofactor for enzymes involved in collagen synthesis
Indications
- Prevention and treatment of vitamin C deficiency
- Boosting the immune system
- Promoting wound healing
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Capsule
- Chewable Tablet
- Liquid
Typical Dosage
- 500 mg - 1000 mg daily
Pediatric Dosage
- 50 mg - 500 mg daily, depending on age and weight
Geriatric Dosage
- 500 mg - 1000 mg daily, adjusted based on renal function
Side Effects
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to vitamin C
- History of kidney stones
Pregnancy Category
- A
Lactation Safety
- Safe to use while breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Iron supplements - may enhance iron absorption
- Warfarin - may reduce the effectiveness of warfarin
Overdose Symptoms
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Kidney stones
- Excessive iron absorption
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care and symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Absorbed in the small intestine
- Distribution: Distributed in various body tissues
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor renal function in patients with renal impairment
- Caution in patients with a history of kidney stones
Warnings
- Avoid high doses in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency