Vitamin C in the critically ill - indications and controversies

World J Crit Care Med. 2018 Oct 16;7(5):52-61. doi: 10.5492/wjccm.v7.i5.52.

Abstract

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) elicits pleiotropic effects in the body. Among its functions, it serves as a potent anti-oxidant, a co-factor in collagen and catecholamine synthesis, and a modulator of immune cell biology. Furthermore, an increasing body of evidence suggests that high-dose vitamin C administration improves hemodynamics, end-organ function, and may improve survival in critically ill patients. This article reviews studies that evaluate vitamin C in pre-clinical models and clinical trials with respect to its therapeutic potential.

Keywords: Ascorbic acid; Cardiovascular; Critical care medicine; Sepsis; Shock; Vasopressors; vitamin C.

Publication types

  • Review