Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is an essential vitamin that is obtained through the food you eat. It is a water-soluble vitamin that cannot be stored in the body. It is involved in the formation of collagen, which is used to make skin, cartilage, blood vessels, tendons and ligaments. It is also involved in healing wounds and repairing bones and teeth. Vitamin C is available as an over-the-counter medication, but you should speak with your physician before using the medication.
Action
Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means it protects your body from free radicals. Free radicals damage cells and accelerate aging. It is also needed for the proper function of your immune system because it is involved in the production of white blood cells. This enables your body to fight off diseases.
Uses
Vitamin C is used for the treatment of scurvy, which is a condition that results from a vitamin C deficiency characterized by general weakness, gum disease and anemia. The vitamin is used to acidify the urine, which reduces heavy metals. This may reduce kidney stones, reduce urinary tract infections and can make the urine less alkaline. It may also be used as a dietary supplement when levels are below normal. Vitamin C may help to prevent or treat the symptoms of a cold by boosting the immune system.
Increased Effects
Vitamin C may increase the effects of medications so you should not take it without your physician's recommendation. According to "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach," 1 gram or more of vitamin C may increase the concentration of estrogen. Women who are on oral contraceptives may have an increased effect and an increase in the appearance of side effects. Vitamin C increases iron absorption; patients with a condition called hemochromatosis should not take the vitamin. Medications that contain aluminum, such as aluminum hydroxide, may increase when administered along with vitamin C and lead to worsening of side effects.
Decreased Effect
Vitamin C may decrease the effect of fluphenazine, deferoxamine, and bortezomib. It may also decrease the blood thinning effects of warfarin, states the "Drug Information Handbook." Indinavir, a protease inhibitor used to treat HIV and AIDS, may be decreased when given with vitamin C. Acidifying agents, such as vitamin C, may decrease the concentration of amphetamines, such as amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, methamphetamine and diethylpropion.
Monitoring
You should always inform your physician of all medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs. This will prevent drugs interactions and adverse effects. Your physician can monitor you appropriately and measure your level of vitamin C. You physician will also be able to modify medication dosages if needed.
References
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin C
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