Vitamin C: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Vitamin C

OTC / Rx

Generic NameVitamin C

Therapeutic ClassVitamin / Antioxidant

Max / 24h2 g (oral), 3 g (IV)

Common Dose50–500 mg daily (prevention), up to 2 g daily (treatment of deficiency)

PregnancyGenerally safe (Category A)

Indications ▼

Prevention and treatment of scurvy

Support in wound healing and tissue repair

Immune system support

Adjunct antioxidant therapy in various conditions

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Essential cofactor for collagen synthesis, antioxidant activity, enhances absorption of iron from the gut, and supports immune function.

Pharmacokinetics: Rapidly absorbed from the gut; peak plasma concentrations in 2–3 hours. Excreted in urine; high doses may lead to saturation and renal excretion.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Condition	Recommended Dose	Frequency
Prevention of deficiency	50–100 mg	Once daily
Treatment of deficiency / Scurvy	500–2000 mg	Daily in divided doses
Immune support	100–500 mg	Once or twice daily

Note: Oral intake preferred; IV route for severe deficiency or malabsorption. High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

Side Effects ▼

Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps (high oral doses)

Kidney stones (rare, with chronic high doses)

Skin rash or urticaria (rare)

Contraindications ▼

Known hypersensitivity to ascorbic acid

History of oxalate kidney stones (caution at high doses)

Drug Interaction ▼

May increase absorption of iron supplements

High doses may interfere with some laboratory glucose and urine tests

May reduce efficacy of certain chemotherapeutic agents (at high doses)

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Generally safe in recommended doses (Category A)

Excretion in breast milk occurs in small amounts; generally considered safe

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Therapeutic Role: Essential vitamin for collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense, and immune function.

Clinical Effectiveness: Effective in preventing and treating scurvy, supporting wound healing, and reducing oxidative stress.

Safety Profile: Well tolerated at recommended doses; high doses may cause GI upset and risk of kidney stones.

Current Research: Investigations ongoing on high-dose vitamin C in immune support, cardiovascular health, and oncology adjunct therapy.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort

Do not exceed recommended daily dose

Inform healthcare provider about any kidney disease history

Can be taken with iron supplements for better absorption

Storage & Handling ▼

Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh (Local Brands):

Ceevit Redoxon Cevit Ascoril

Global / International Brands:

Redoxon Cecon Cevit

Medical Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and must not replace professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Vitamins / Antioxidants • Conditions: Vitamin C Deficiency • Conditions: Immune Support