Composition and Pharmacology

– Ascorbic Acid Injection USP contains 250 mg/ml of ascorbic acid and water for injection   .

– It is classified under the pharmacotherapeutic group of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), with the ATC code A11GA01.

– Ascorbic acid is essential for the formation of collagen, cartilage, bone, and teeth, and plays a crucial role in wound healing.

– It aids in the conversion of folic acid to folinic acid, enhances iron absorption, and influences hemoglobin formation and erythrocyte maturation.

Pharmacokinetics

– Ascorbic acid is widely distributed in body tissues, with about 25% bound to plasma proteins.

– It crosses the placenta and is metabolized to dehydroascorbic acid, with some converted to oxalic acid and inactive ascorbate – 2 – sulphate.

– Excretion occurs rapidly in urine, with about 40% excreted within 8 hours after an intravenous dose, increasing to 70% post tissue saturation   .

Indications and Contraindications

– Indicated for the prevention and treatment of scurvy and conditions requiring vitamin C supplementation, especially when oral administration is difficult   .

– Contraindicated in patients with hyperoxaluria.

Drug Interactions

– Ascorbic acid may interact with various drugs, including aspirin, alcohol, and oral contraceptives, affecting absorption and excretion.

– It can interfere with laboratory tests based on oxidation-reduction reactions.

– Caution is advised when used with desferrioxamine in patients with iron overload, particularly those with cardiac dysfunction   .

Warnings and Precautions

– Use with caution in patients with renal failure due to the risk of renal oxalate calculi.

– High doses may cause haemolysis in patients with G6PD deficiency and gastrointestinal disorders like diarrhea.

Dosage and Administration

– Adults: 0.5 to 1g daily for scurvy; 200 to 500mg for prevention.

– Children: 100 to 300mg daily for treatment; 30mg for prevention.

– Administration: Intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV).

Pregnancy and Lactation

– Doses greater than 1g daily should be avoided during pregnancy due to unknown effects on the fetus.

– Ascorbic acid is excreted in breast milk, but no hazards have been reported.

Storage and Presentation

– Store below 30°C, protected from light, and keep out of reach of children.

– Available in 2ml ampoules.