Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is an over-the-counter and prescription medication used to treat low levels of vitamin C in people who do not get enough of the vitamin from their diets. Vitamin C deficiency can result in a condition called scurvy. This condition is present with symptoms such as rash, muscle weakness, tiredness, or tooth loss. The active ingredient in Vitamin C is Ascorbic Acid. Ascorbic Acid belongs to a class of drugs called antioxidants. It works by supporting the immune system to work properly and protect the body from disease.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Vitamin C from Canada manufactured by Jamieson in the strength of 500 mg time-release capsules, 500 mg chewable tablets, and 1000 mg time-release caplets. The generic Ascorbic Acid is also available from Canada by a different manufacturer in the strength of 250mg/ml injections and 500 mg tablets.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Vitamin C. The most common side effects of Vitamin C may include the following:
• Diarrhea;
• Heartburn;
• Nausea;
• Upset stomach
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Fatigue;
• Fever;
• Joint pain;
• Painful urination;
• Weight loss
These are not all of the side effects of Vitamin C. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Vitamin C if you are allergic to Ascorbic Acid or any ingredient in Vitamin C. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have G6PD deficiency;
• Have hemochromatosis;
• Have kidney disease
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Vitamin C and other medicines, like fluphenazine, niacin, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether Vitamin C will harm an unborn baby. Vitamin C has been found to be safe in pregnancy when used in recommended doses. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Ascorbic Acid passes into breast milk, but it should not affect a nursing infant when used in recommended doses. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Vitamin C comes in different forms. Swallow the extended-release capsule whole. Do not crush, chew, or break it open. Chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it. Your doctor will administer a Vitamin C injection into your vein, a muscle, or under your skin. Drink plenty of fluids while using ascorbic acid. Do not stop using this drug suddenly after long-term use at high doses. Avoid smoking when using the drug. Cigarette smoking may decrease the effectiveness of ascorbic acid. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep out of sight and reach of children.