Vitamin C Injections

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin found naturally in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most animals, humans can't synthesize it on their own, so it has to come from diet, supplements, or in this case, a compounded injectable.

Vitamin C plays a documented role in several processes in the body: it's involved in collagen synthesis, it functions as an antioxidant, and it supports normal immune system function. It's also a cofactor in a number of enzymatic reactions, including one that affects how the body absorbs non-heme iron from food.

Injectable administration bypasses the digestive tract, which is one reason patients and providers sometimes prefer it. Oral vitamin C has diminishing absorption at high doses, since the body can only take up so much through the gut. Whether an injection is the right choice for you is something to discuss with your prescribing provider.

Potential Benefits: based on the documented role of Vitamin C in the scientific literature:

- May support normal collagen synthesis
- May support normal immune function
- May support normal wound healing processes
- May play a role in normal iron absorption

These statements describe the physiological role of Vitamin C as documented in the scientific literature. They aren't claims that this compounded product treats, cures, or prevents any disease or condition, and individual results vary significantly and aren't guaranteed.

Product Purchase Includes:

- Medication
- Medical provider consultation
- Syringes
- Alcohol Pads
- Program guide
- Administration video

Administration and Frequency:

- Intramuscular (IM) injection
- As directed by your prescribing provider

Contraindications

Vitamin C injections may not be appropriate for individuals who:

- Have kidney disease or impaired renal function.  High-dose vitamin C is metabolized in part to oxalate, and in patients with reduced kidney function, this can raise the risk of oxalate nephropathy or kidney stones. If you have any history of kidney disease, discuss this with your prescribing provider before starting.
- Have hemochromatosis or another iron overload condition.  Vitamin C increases the absorption of non-heme iron. In patients who already have excess iron stores, this can make the underlying condition worse.
- Have G6PD deficiency. High-dose vitamin C has been associated with hemolysis in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. This is a serious and well-documented interaction.
- Have a history of kidney stones.  Particularly oxalate stones.
- Have a known hypersensitivity to ascorbic acid or any component of the formulation.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding; discuss with your independent licensed healthcare provider before use.

Warnings and Precautions

- Kidney function. Given the oxalate-related risks described above, patients with any degree of kidney impairment should have this discussed explicitly with their provider and ideally have kidney function assessed before starting high-dose vitamin C.
- Iron-related conditions. If you have hemochromatosis, thalassemia, or any other condition involving iron overload or altered iron metabolism, tell your provider before starting.
- G6PD deficiency screening. If your family history or ethnic background carries an elevated risk of G6PD deficiency and you haven't been tested, raise this with your provider.
- Injection site reactions. Vitamin C injections can cause local irritation, particularly at higher concentrations.
- Drug interactions. Vitamin C may interact with certain chemotherapy agents and other medications. Tell your provider about everything you're currently taking.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medical conditions, medications, and supplements before receiving this compounded formulation.

Potential Side Effects

Reported side effects may include:

- Injection site pain, redness, or irritation
- Nausea
- Headache
- Flushing
- Diarrhea (more common at higher oral doses, less so with injection)
- Kidney stones or oxalate nephropathy, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. See Contraindications above
- Hemolysis in patients with G6PD deficiency. See Warnings above

Seek immediate medical attention for signs of a severe allergic reaction: hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing. Contact your prescribing provider for anything else that feels off or unexpected.

Ingredients:
- 500mg/mL (30mL vial)