High-Dose Vitamin C IV Therapy
Improve your quality of life, naturally.
High-dose vitamin C intravenous (IV) therapy involves administering vitamin C directly into the bloodstream at levels that are much higher than what you could typically get through oral supplements. Proponents of high-dose vitamin C IV therapy offer a wide range of health benefits, including boosting the immune system, fighting infections, and even treating certain diseases like cancer.
*G6PD test required prior to receiving IV
Benefits of Intravenous High-Dose Vitamin C
Immune System Support
High-dose vitamin C can boost the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses.
Supplemental Cancer Treatment
High-dose vitamin C can be used as an adjunctive therapy for cancer treatment, enhancing the effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Antioxidant Effects
High-dose vitamin C can neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from damage.
Collagen Synthesis
Vitamin C plays a vital role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for the health of skin, blood vessels, bones, and joints. High doses aid in wound healing and prevent certain skin conditions.
Reducing Inflammation
High-dose vitamin C has anti-inflammatory effects, which benefit conditions related to chronic inflammation.
Iron Absorption
Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based foods) in the intestines, which is beneficial for individuals with iron-deficiency anemia.
What is High Dose Vitamin C Therapy?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including the maintenance of skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. It’s also an antioxidant, which means it helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
High-dose vitamin C IV therapy involves infusing vitamin C directly into the bloodstream. These high doses can reach higher levels in the body, offering therapeutic effects beyond what oral supplementation can provide.
At Forum Health, our IV teams are highly skilled and experienced, ensuring that you get what you need, safely and effectively.
Schedule your IV therapy treatment today!
FAQ
Low vitamin C symptoms include fatigue, weakness, gum problems (bleeding, pain), skin changes (dryness, petechiae), joint pain, slow wound healing, mood changes, weight loss, swelling, weakened immune system, dry hair, and red or inflamed hair follicles.
Yes, a severe deficiency in vitamin C can cause joint pain due to its role in collagen synthesis, leading to a condition called scurvy, which includes joint pain among its symptoms.
Vitamin C plays a role in overall health, including immune function and the body's ability to manage stress, which can indirectly influence sleep. Adequate vitamin C intake is important for general well-being, but other factors like stress, diet, and lifestyle choices have a more direct impact on sleep quality and duration.
High-dose vitamin C IV therapy is sometimes used alongside cancer treatments due to its antioxidant properties, potential immune system support, and pro-oxidant effects on cancer cells. However, it should only be considered as a complementary therapy under the guidance of qualified medical professionals. It should not replace established cancer treatments. Patients should consult with their oncologists before beginning high-dose vitamin C IV therapy.
- Digestive Issues: High doses of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is more common when vitamin C is taken orally but can also occur with IV administration.
- Kidney Stones: High doses of vitamin C can increase the risk of kidney stones, especially in individuals who are predisposed to this condition.
- Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Deficiency: Individuals with G6PD deficiency may experience hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) when exposed to high doses of vitamin C.
Forum Health requires all patients to undergo a G6PD test prior to receiving a high dose Vitamin C IV and providers work with patients to slowly increase dosages to minimize negative side effects.
High dose vitamin C IV therapy has been explored as a complementary or alternative treatment for various conditions, including cancer, infections, and autoimmune diseases.
High dose vitamin C IV therapy is generally considered safe when administered by trained healthcare professionals. However, high doses of vitamin C can cause side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. There is also a risk of more serious complications, such as kidney stones, especially in individuals with a history of kidney problems. Additionally, individuals with certain conditions, such as certain types of kidney disorders or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, should avoid high dose vitamin C therapy. Patients should discuss their medical history with a Forum Health provider before undergoing this treatment.
High dose vitamin C IV therapy is administered in a clinical setting by a qualified healthcare professional. A needle is inserted into a vein, and a solution containing a high concentration of vitamin C is infused directly into the bloodstream. The duration and frequency of the treatment sessions can vary based on your health condition and the practitioner's recommendations.
While undergoing high dose vitamin C IV therapy, it is advisable to maintain a balanced and healthy diet. Some Forum Health providers may recommend dietary modifications, such as reducing the intake of certain foods or beverages that can interfere with the absorption or effectiveness of vitamin C. Patients should follow the specific guidelines provided by their Forum Health provider.
Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and treatments they are currently undergoing. High dose vitamin C IV therapy can potentially interact with certain medications or treatments. It's essential for healthcare providers to have a complete understanding of a patient's medical history to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. Patients should not discontinue any prescribed medications or treatments without consulting their healthcare provider.