Intravenous Vitamin C may help treat various cancers

2014-07-02 15:03:42

Intravenous vitamin C (IVC) is used as a treatment in integrative oncology. A recent study analyzed human trials and observational studies to develop a better understanding of its effect.⁽¹⁾ Multiple medical databases were searched and included in the review and analysis. In total, there were 2 randomized trials, 15 uncontrolled trials, 6 observational studies, and 14 case reports. The dose ranged from 1g to 200g per infusion, usually done 2-3 times per week. IVC did not appear to increase toxicity or interfere with certain chemotherapy drugs. IVC may improve time to relapse and possibly enhance reductions in tumor mass and improve survival, in combination with chemotherapy. It may also improve quality of life, physical function, and toxicities associated with chemotherapy such as fatigue, nausea, insomnia, constipation, and depression. Some of the case reports show tumor regression and long-term disease-free survival associated with the use of IVC. However, there is limited high-quality clinical evidence on the overall safety and effectiveness, so more research is warranted.