DRUG
Generic Name: Ascorbic Acid
Trade Name: Ascor, Cenalate
Classification: Vitamin, Water soluble
Route, Dosage &Frequency:
adult: PO/IV/IM/SC 150–500 mg/d
in 1–2 doses
child: PO/IV/IM/SC 100–300 mg/d
in divided doses
Prophylactic
adult: PO/IV/IM/SC 45–60 mg/d
child: PO/IV/IM/SC 30–60 mg/d
ACTION INDICATIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS
Mechanism of Action:
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is used to prevent
or treat low levels of vitamin C in people
who do not get enough of the vitamin from
their diets. Most people who eat a normal
diet do not need extra ascorbic acid. Low
levels of vitamin C can result in a condition
called scurvy. Scurvy may cause symptoms
such as rash, muscle weakness, joint pain,
tiredness, or tooth loss.
Vitamin C plays an important role in the
body. It is needed to maintain the health
of skin, cartilage, teeth, bone,
and blood vessels. It is also used to protect
your body's cells from damage. It is known
as an antioxidant.
Side effects &Adverse effect:
Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting,
abdominal cramps/pain, or heartburn may
occur. If any of these effects persist or
worsen, tell your doctor
or pharmacist promptly.
If your doctor has directed you to use this
vitamin, remember that he or she has judged
that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this
vitamin do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these
rare but very serious side effects
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES
Indications:
Vitamin C is recommended for the prevention and
treatment of scurvy. Its parenteral administration is
desirable for patients with an acute deficiency or
for those whose absorption of orally
ingested ascorbic acid (vitamin c) is uncertain.
Symptoms of mild deficiency may include faulty
bone and tooth development, gingivitis, bleeding
gums, and loosened teeth. Febrile states, chronic
illness, and infection (pneumonia, whooping
cough, tuberculosis, diphtheria, sinusitis, rheumatic
fever, etc.) increase the need for ascorbic acid
(vitamin c) .
Contraindications:
Contraindicated in those persons who have shown
hypersensitivity to any component of this
preparation.
-Lab tests: Periodic Hct & Hgb, serum
electrolytes.
-Monitor for S&S of acute hemolytic
anemia, sickle cell crisis.
Patient & Family Education
-High doses of vitamin C are not
recommended during pregnancy. -
Take large doses of vitamin C in
divided amounts because the body uses
only what is needed at a particular time
and excretes the rest in urine
-Megadoses can interfere with
absorption of vitamin B12.
-Note: Vitamin C increases the
absorption of iron when taken at the
same time as iron-rich foods.
-Do not breast feed while taking this
drug without consulting physician.
occur: painful urination, pink/bloody urine.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug

is rare. However, seek immediate medical
attention if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction,
including: rash, itching/swelling (especially
of the face/tongue/throat),
severe dizziness, trouble breathing.