IV Vitamin C

IV Vitamin C is the process of administering high doses of Vitamin C through the bloodstream. Orally, too much Vitamin C can cause unpleasant GI side effects like diarrhea, however, when administered through the bloodstream it bypasses the GI tract leading to optimal absorption and fewer side effects.

Who Can It Benefit?

• Adjunct to cancer therapy – Research shows that it can kill cancer cells, slow progression of cancer and greatly reduces the side effects of chemo and radiation therapy.
• Infections – At high doses Vitamin C is antiviral and antibacterial. It is commonly used as an adjunct treatment for Lyme disease, EBV and other chronic infections.
• Increases immune system function.
• Lessens pain after injuries and helps the body to heal faster.
• Improves energy levels and fatigue.

How Does It Work?

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant. At high doses and in the presence of oxygen it is converted into hydrogen peroxide, a superoxide. Hydrogen peroxide can kill cancer cells, viruses and bacteria, without harming our own cells.

Is IV Vitamin C Safe?

Vitamin C has been shown to be safe in nearly all patient populations, alone and in combination with chemotherapy. Your physician will run some basic blood work to make sure that your kidneys are healthy and will also look for a genetic disorder called G6PD deficiency, which may make tolerance to IV Vitamin C difficult.

Side Effects

At high doses Vitamin C can cause hypoglycemia. It is important to drink plenty of water before IV Vitamin C treatments and eat a snack prior to your appointment. Healthy snacks are available for our patients in our IV room. Like all IV therapies, there is a risk of bruising, pain or swelling at the injection site.