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L-ascorbic acid
L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) acts as a reducing agent and cofactor for enzymatic reactions, supporting collagen synthesis, immune function, and antioxidant defense.
L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) acts as a reducing agent and cofactor for enzymatic reactions, supporting collagen synthesis, immune function, and antioxidant defense. Used for Vitamin C deficiency / scurvy prevention and treatment, Nutritional supplementation, Adjunctive support in various conditions (investigational use by VCU).
At a glance
| Generic name | L-ascorbic acid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Vitamin C, Intravenous, vitamin C, Vitamin C, Ascor |
| Sponsor | Virginia Commonwealth University |
| Drug class | Vitamin / nutritional supplement |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Nutritional deficiency / General health |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
L-ascorbic acid is an essential micronutrient that serves as a cofactor for prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase enzymes required for collagen cross-linking and stability. It functions as a potent antioxidant, scavenging free radicals and regenerating other antioxidants like vitamin E. Additionally, it supports immune cell function and is involved in numerous metabolic pathways including carnitine and neurotransmitter synthesis.
Approved indications
- Vitamin C deficiency / scurvy prevention and treatment
- Nutritional supplementation
- Adjunctive support in various conditions (investigational use by VCU)
Common side effects
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps)
- Kidney stone formation (in susceptible individuals with high doses)
- Headache
- Flushing
Key clinical trials
- The Physiological Responses and Adaptation of Brown Adipose Tissue to Chronic Treatment With Beta3-Adrenergic Receptor Agonists (PHASE1)
- Regenerative Potentials of Mature Mandibular Molars With Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis Enhanced With Different Scaffolds (NA)
- Urine and Ultrasound Screening for Kidney Disease in Children (NA)
- The Body's Affect on Vitamin C (PHASE1)
- A Phase 2 Study Adding Ascorbate to Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy for NSCLC (PHASE2)
- Vitamin C for Acute Kidney Injury in ACLF With Septic Shock: A Randomized Controlled Trial (NA)
- Effects of L-arginine and Liposomial Vitamin C on Severe Copd Patients Undergoing Pulmonary Rehabilitation. (NA)
- Vitamin E Pharmacokinetics and Biomarkers in Normal and Obese Women (PHASE1)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |