Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

Question 1

essential for

Answer 1

synthesis and maintenance of collagen; helps maintain immune system for improved wound healing; megadoses may reduce severity of common cold
deficiency: scurvy

Question 2

off-label uses

Answer 2

preventing and treating cancer

Question 3

pregnancy category

Answer 3

C

Question 4

contraindications

Answer 4

sodium/calcium ascorbate: patients w/ sodium/calcium restrictions; large doses should be avoided in G6PD deficiency, hemochromatosis, thallasemia, sickle cell anemia, gout, kidney stones

Question 5

drug interactions

Answer 5

ASA inhibit uptake by cells, and vitamin C decreases elimination of ASA; decreased effects of anticoagulants; increases absorption of iron

Question 6

adverse effects

Answer 6

large doses may cause nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea
headache
hyperuricemia

Question 7

serious adverse effects

Answer 7

acute hemolytic anemia