Ascocid

Ascorbic acid, also known as Vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for development and restoration of tissues in the body.

It also strengthens blood vessel walls. It can be found in various foods, including citrus fruits and vegetables.

Insufficient supply of vitamin C in the body can lead to scurvy. Scurvy can cause muscle weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, tooth loss, and an opening of previously healed wounds, as well as tiredness and depression.

It is treated by providing the patient with vitamin C. Having the following conditions may increase your need for vitamin C:

• Acquired immune deficiency syndrome
• Alcoholism
• Burns
• Cancer
• Prolonged diarrhea
• Prolonged fever
• Prolonged infection
• Intestinal diseases
• Hyperthyroidism
• Stomach ulcer
• Continuing stress
• Gastrectomy
• Tuberculosis

The following are groups of people that may acquire vitamin C deficiency:

• Infants receiving unfortified formulas
• Smokers
• Patients who are undergoing hemodialysis
• Patients who undergo surgery
• Individuals who are exposed to long periods of cold temperatures
• Increased need for vitamin C should be determined by your health care professional.

Before using Ascorbic acid, tell your healthcare providers if you have any allergies to this medication or to any other drugs.

Ascorbic acid is safe for both children and elderly.

Pregnancy category C – Ascorbic acid is found to be safe during pregnancy when used in prescribed doses.

However, you may consult your doctor for more information with regard to the risk and benefits of this medication.

This medicine passes into breast milk and can cause minimal risk to the infant. Discuss with your doctor if you have some concerns with this matter.

Medications that are listed below can interact with Ascorbic acid.

Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following medications:

• Amygdalin
• Deferoxamine
• Indinavir

Some medical conditions can interact with Ascorbic acid.

Tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
• Blood diseases
• Kidney stones
• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency

The dose of Ascorbic acid varies for different patients. Take this medication as directed by your physician or as indicated on the packaging label.

Oral dosage forms:

For the United States

• Adult and teenage males - 50 to 60 milligrams (mg) per day.
• Adult and teenage females - 50 to 60 mg per day.
• Pregnant females - 70 mg per day.
• Breast-feeding females - 90 to 95 mg per day.
• Smokers - 100 mg per day.
• Children 4 to 10 years of age - 45 mg per day.
• Children birth to 3 years of age - 30 to 40 mg per day.

For Canada

• Adult and teenage males - 25 to 40 mg per day.
• Adult and teenage females - 25 to 30 mg per day.
• Pregnant females - 30 to 40 mg per day.
• Breast-feeding females - 55 mg per day.
• Smokers - 45 to 60 mg per day.
• Children 4 to 10 years of age - 25 mg per day.
• Children birth to 3 years of age - 20 mg per day.

For treatment of deficiency:

A physician will determine the right treatment dose for each individual based on the severity of deficiency. The following dose has been determined for scurvy:

• Adults and teenagers - 500 mg a day for at least 2 weeks.
• Children - 100 to 300 mg a day for at least 2 weeks.

Preparation for Ascorbic acid oral liquid form:

This oral liquid form of Vitamin C is to be taken by mouth or can be mixed with cereal, fruit juice, or other food.

Missed Dose:

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is near for your next dose, skip the missed dose and start again to your regular dosing schedule.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Storage:

Store the medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep out of reach of children.

Ascorbic acid is not stored in the body and is excreted in the urine.

Taking very large doses of Vitamin C may also interfere with tests for sugar and tests for blood in the stool.

Check with your doctor right away if you experience signs of allergic reaction and side or lower back pain.

Less serious side effects include:

• Diarrhea
• Dizziness or faintness (with the injection only)
• Flushing or redness of the skin
• Headache
• Mild increase in urination
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach cramps

If any of these symptoms persists or worsen within a few days of taking this medication, consult your physician as soon as possible.