Ascorbic acid

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is one of the most well-known vitamins necessary for the normal functioning of the human body. It is part of the group of antioxidants and has an important protective function, preventing damage to body cells by free radicals.

Ascorbic acid is widely used in medicine. It is used for the treatment of hypovitaminosis C, hemorrhagic diathesis, infectious diseases, intoxication, alcoholic and infectious delirium, acute radiation sickness, post-transfusion complications, liver diseases, gastrointestinal tract, cholecystitis, adrenal insufficiency, sluggishly healing wounds, ulcers, bone fractures, dystrophy, physical and mental overload, pregnancy and lactation, hemosiderosis, melasma, erythroderma, psoriasis, chronic common dermatoses, etc.

However, it is necessary to take into account contraindications to the use of ascorbic acid. It should not be used for hypersensitivity, thrombophlebitis, a tendency to thrombosis and diabetes mellitus.

Side effects from Ascorbic acid can be different, including irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), arterial hypertension, metabolic disorders, inhibition of the function of the insular apparatus of the pancreas, decreased capillary permeability and deterioration of tissue trophism, thrombocytosis, hyperprothrombinemia, thrombus formation, erythrocytopenia , neutrophilic leukocytosis, myocardial dystrophy, damage to the glomerular apparatus of the kidneys, allergic reactions, formation of urinary stones, impaired zinc and copper metabolism, increased excitability of the central nervous system, sleep disturbance, development of microangiopathies.

With long-term use of Ascorbic acid, depletion of vitamin C reserves in the body may also occur, especially when taking quinoline drugs, calcium chloride, salicylates and corticosteroids simultaneously.

The interaction of ascorbic acid with other drugs must also be taken into account. It can increase blood concentrations of salicylates, ethinyl estradiol, benzylpenicillin and tetracyclines, and also reduce the anticoagulant activity of coumarin derivatives.

In general, ascorbic acid is an important vitamin for maintaining the health of the body, but its use should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor and taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient. You should not abuse it or self-medicate, and you must also follow the recommendations for dosage and duration of use.