IV Vitamin C
Low & High-Dose IV Ascorbic Acid
Intravenous (IV) vitamin C therapy is a powerful way to support your immune system and skin, among others. It also has robust benefits when used as a cancer supportive treatment and autoimmune treatment.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Vitamin C: A Vital Nutrient
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions. It's a potent antioxidant, supporting immune health, collagen production, and wound healing. Unfortunately, our bodies cannot produce vitamin C on their own, so we must obtain it through diet and supplementation. However, even with a healthy diet, it can be challenging to achieve optimal levels, especially when dealing with specific health conditions.
IV Vitamin C vs. Other Forms
While oral supplements and vitamin C injections are available, IV vitamin C therapy offers a distinct advantage. It bypasses the digestive system, allowing for much higher concentrations of vitamin C to reach the bloodstream. This is particularly important for conditions where high doses are needed, as the body's absorption of oral vitamin C is limited.
Side effects of IV vitamin C are generally mild and may include bruising at the injection site, mild nausea, or flushing, hypoglycemia, electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, and thirst.
The effects of IV vitamin C can last for several days, although the vitamin itself is processed and eliminated by the body within a few hours. The benefits, such as immune support and antioxidant effects, can be longer-lasting.
The Impact of Vitamin C Deficiency
Vitamin C deficiency can lead to a range of health issues, including:
Weakened Immune System: Increased susceptibility to infections.
Impaired Collagen Production: Affecting skin health, joint function, and wound healing.
Fatigue & Weakness: Reduced energy levels.
Scurvy: A severe deficiency characterized by fatigue, weakness, bleeding gums, and impaired wound healing.
High-Dose vs. Low-Dose Vitamin C
Anti-Oxidant & Oxidant Effects
IV vitamin C exhibits a fascinating duality in its biological effects. At lower concentrations, it acts as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and contributing to collagen synthesis, a crucial component of healthy tissues. However, in higher doses, vitamin C's behavior shifts, becoming an oxidant with the ability to selectively target and destroy cancer cells and many infections. This pro-oxidant activity also contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help inhibit tumor growth, the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), and the spread of cancer (metastasis).
Low-dose IV vitamin C (antioxidant) clinical benefits can potentially include:
Improving immune function
Reducing fatigue
Improving skin health
Toxin reduction
High-dose IV vitamin C therapy (oxidant) is being investigated for its potential benefits in a range of other health areas, including:
Antimicrobial therapy (helps kill bacteria, viruses, fungus, and biofilms)
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Vitamin C Benefits for the Skin
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can contribute to healthy, radiant skin. Its benefits include:
Collagen Production: Stimulates collagen synthesis, promoting skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles.
Antioxidant Protection: Protects the skin against damage from free radicals, pollution, and UV radiation.
Wound Healing: Supports the skin's natural healing process.
IV Vitamin C for Cancer Support
Research suggests that high-dose IV vitamin C may play a supportive role in cancer treatment. Studies are exploring its potential to target cancer cells while minimizing side effects of conventional treatments. It is crucial to understand that IV vitamin C is not a standalone cancer treatment and should be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments. We adhere to established protocols, including those developed by the University of Kansas, which have been instrumental in this research.
The potential of high-dose vitamin C in cancer treatment has been explored since the pioneering work of Ewan Cameron, a Scottish surgeon, and Linus Pauling, a renowned chemist in the 1970s. Numerous case reports and clinical trials have since investigated its therapeutic applications. One compelling example involves a 74-year-old woman with multiple pulmonary metastases who experienced complete regression after 10 months of bi-weekly intravenous high-dose vitamin C therapy. Furthermore, the National Cancer Institute has reported that high-dose vitamin C treatment can slow the growth and spread of various cancer cell types, including prostate, pancreatic, liver, colon, malignant mesothelioma, neuroblastoma, and others. Studies combining intravenous vitamin C with standard chemotherapy and radiation in breast cancer patients have also indicated improved quality of life and reduced side effects in those receiving the vitamin C therapy.
While some studies suggest potential benefits, it's essential to discuss IV vitamin C therapy with your oncologist before starting treatment, as it may interact with certain chemotherapy drugs.
IV Vitamin C for Chronic Conditions
IV vitamin C may offer support for patients with chronic conditions like Lyme disease, autoimmunity, and mold toxicity. Its immune-supporting properties may be beneficial in addressing the underlying inflammation, infection levels, and immune dysregulation associated with these conditions. While further research is needed, many integrative medicine practitioners have observed positive outcomes when incorporating IV vitamin C as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for these complex illnesses.
University of Kansas Protocols
Our clinic utilizes the IV vitamin C protocols developed by the University of Kansas. These protocols are based on extensive research and are designed to maximize the potential benefits of IV vitamin C while ensuring patient safety. These protocols often involve specific dosages and administration schedules based on the individual's needs.
IV Vitamin C Dosage for Adults
Dosage recommendations for IV vitamin C vary depending on the individual's health condition and treatment goals. After a patient assessment has been completed, we’d develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Low Dose: 1-20 grams. At this dosage, IV vitamin C works as an antioxidant.
High Dose: 25-100 grams. At this dosage, IV vitamin C works as an oxidant.
In some cases, we may use a glucometer before and halfway through treatment to help estimate blood levels of vitamin C. This allows for a more tailored approach to treatment, especially when used as part of a cancer treatment plan or for chronic conditions.
RGCC testing can help determine the effectiveness of various natural substances, including vitamin C, against specific cancer cells. This testing can help us personalize treatment plans and determine if IV vitamin C is the most appropriate therapy for your individual situation, including its potential use in supporting patients with chronic illnesses.
IV Vitamin C Treatment Frequency
The frequency of IV vitamin C treatments will depend on your individual needs and treatment plan. Some individuals may benefit from weekly treatments, while others may require less frequent sessions.
Safety considerations:
Pediatrics: Likely safe when used appropriately.
Pregnancy: Likely safe when used in low doses. Avoid high-dose oxidative therapy.
Lactation: Likely safe when used appropriately.
Note: We use preservative-free IV vitamin C to avoid potentially toxic levels of benzyl alcohol.
IV Vitamin C Mechanism of Action
Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C) is a water-soluble vitamin involved in the formation of collagen in bones, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels. Ascorbic acid also aids in the absorption of iron. Most animals can produce vitamin C intrinsically, but humans do not. As such, humans must obtain vitamin C from the diet. In low doses, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant. High-dose vitamin C causes oxidation through increased intracellular hydrogen peroxide, which primarily harms G6PD-deficient cells such as cancer cells and virus-infected cells. Healthy cells with adequate G6PD typically reduce the intracellular hydrogen peroxide resulting in no harm.
Combining IV Vitamin C & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Combining IV vitamin C with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may offer synergistic benefits. HBOT increases oxygen levels and circulation in the tissues, which may enhance the effectiveness of vitamin C. This combination is being explored for its potential to support overall health, well-being, and potential anti-cancer effects, as well as potential benefits for chronic conditions.
