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Intravenous

Vitamin C

Intravenous Vitamin C is a natural anti-oxidant that is safe and effective in many cancer settings.

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HOW IT WORKS

Understanding Intravenous Vitamin C

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What is High Dose Intravenous Vitamin C?

High Dose intravenous vitamin C (HDIVC) is an intervention used in cancer settings to improve immune function, support conventional care such as chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapies, targeted therapies, and in surgical optimization.

When administered intravenously by medical professionals, we achieve a significantly higher serum concentration of vitamin C than through oral means.

How HDIVC Works

At low doses (typically achieved through oral supplementation and diet), vitamin C acts as an anti-oxidant, scavenging free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage, and supports many areas of the body.

At high doses (only achieved through intravenous access), vitamin C additionally provides a pro-oxidant effect in the tumour microenvironment (TME). This mechanism allows vitamin C to act as a chemo-sensitizer (improving chemotherapy efficacy) and radio-sensitizer (improving radiation efficacy) amongst other cytotoxic (anti-tumour) effects.

Vitamin C helps support the immune system, improves connective tissue and collagen formation, helps maintain strong bones, and prevents vitamin C deficiency.

Our Approach

Our clinic provides access to discussions about integrative modalities such as High Dose Vitamin C. When appropriate, these therapies may be explored in collaboration with each patient’s care team.

We do not claim High Dose Vitamin C is a treatment or cure for any disease. Instead, our role is to educate, inform, and support patients who wish to understand the range of integrative approaches that are being studied internationally and used in an integrative setting to best achieve their health goals.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Many patients are curious about High Dose Intravenous Vitamin C as an integrative option to their care. Explore the top five most asked questions.

Is HDIVC safe?

When administered by trained professionals, IV Vitamin C is well tolerated. A G6PD test is required prior to infusion to assess safety at high doses.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects are rare but can include fatigue, mild nausea, vein irritation, and hypoglycemia can occur during or immediately after infusion.

Can Vitamin C cause hypoglycaemia?

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is molecularly similar to glucose and can stimulate the release of insulin. This is often prevented by eating prior to your infusion.