Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ASCORBIC ACID - ORAL

(ask-OR-bick acid)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cecon, Sunkist, Vitamin C

Uses

Ascorbic acid (also known as vitamin C) is used to treat and prevent vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to to scurvy.

How To Use

Take this medication with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. Chewable tablets must be chewed thoroughly before swallowing followed with a glass of water. Timed-release capsules or tablets must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew them. Mix the powder form in a glass of juice or water. Stir well and drink immediately.

Side Effects

This medication may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, mouth sores, or frequent urination. Promptly consult your doctor if any of these effects persist or worsen. Tell your doctor immediately if any symptoms of kidney stones develop, such as: abdominal/back pain, painful urination. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: diabetes, blood disorders, kidney stones, any drug or food allergies. Large doses of ascorbic acid may cause kidney stones. Check with your doctor before taking large doses without a prescription. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Ascorbic acid is considered safe during pregnancy when not taken excessively. Ascorbic acid is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been (to date) no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all medicines you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially: all vitamin and mineral supplements. If you take aspirin on a regular schedule, consult your doctor before taking ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid may affect laboratory tests, including urine tests for sugar. Diabetics should consult their doctor or pharmacist for the correct way to test their urine while taking large amounts of ascorbic acid. Before you have any tests, tell the laboratory personnel and doctor that you are taking this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include change in amount of urine or joint pain.

Notes

Foods that contain large amounts of vitamin C include citrus fruit, strawberries, potatoes, tomatoes, leafy vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy products. Eat more of these foods to increase the amount of vitamin C in your diet. There are many ascorbic acid supplement products available. Many can be purchased without a prescription. Consult your doctor or pharmacist on the choice of a product best for you.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.