What is Ascorbic Acid?
Ascorbic Acid, also known as Vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin and potent antioxidant found in various tissues like skin, bones, and connective tissue. It helps combat bacterial infections, detoxify reactions, and contribute to collagen formation.
- It acts as a powerful antioxidant
- Used as a food preservative agent
- Enhance the bioavailability of dietary iron
Ascorbic Acid Uses
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is essential for individuals with insufficient dietary intake to prevent or treat vitamin C deficiency, known as scurvy.
- This can lead to symptoms such as rash, muscle weakness, joint pain, tiredness, or tooth loss.
- Vitamin C is crucial for maintaining skin, cartilage, teeth, bone, and blood vessel health and protecting body cells as an antioxidant.
How to make use of Ascorbic Acid
Take this vitamin 1 to 2 times daily, with or without food, as directed by your doctor or per the instructions on the packaging. Swallow extended-release capsules whole; do not crush or chew to avoid side effects. Follow dosage instructions carefully, use a special measuring device for liquid forms, and seek medical attention if you suspect a severe medical condition.
Ascorbic Acid Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of Ascorbic Acid are:
- Swelling of throat, eyes, nose
- Skin burning sensation
- Rash or itchiness
- Difficulty in breathing
- Dizziness
- Allergic reactions
- Bleeding
- Stomach pain
- Abdominal pain
- Depression
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Headache
Note: Contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms while using ascorbic acid, as it may cause additional side effects.
Precautions while taking Ascorbic Acid
- Before taking ascorbic acid, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies, especially to inactive ingredients like peanuts or soy, which may cause allergic reactions.
- Discuss your medical history, particularly kidney failure or G6PD deficiency.
- During pregnancy, use prescribed amounts of this vitamin, and consult your doctor about potential risks and benefits.
Interactions of Ascorbic Acid
Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal products, before starting treatment to avoid potential interactions. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without your doctor’s approval. Be cautious of possible interference with specific laboratory tests, and ensure that healthcare providers are aware of your use of this vitamin.
Note: Do not share this medication with anyone.
Overdose
An overdose of this drug can be harmful, leading to severe symptoms such as loss of consciousness or respiratory issues.
Missed dose
If you miss a daily dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up on doses to compensate for a missed one.
Ascorbic Acid Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom.
- Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed.
- Proper disposal is crucial, especially when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on safe disposal.
Ascorbic Acid vs Citric Acid
| Ascorbic acid | Citric acid |
|---|---|
| Ascorbic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid that is weak. | Citric acid is an organic tribasic acid that is weak. |
| It is white or light yellow solid. | It is a crystalline white solid. |
| Ascorbic acid, also called vitamin C, is an essential vitamin to the human body | Citric acid is not any kind of vitamin. |
| The formula is C6H8O6. | The formula is C6H8O7. |
| Its molar mass is 176.12 g·mol−1 | Its molar mass is 192.12 g·mol−1 |
| Its density is 1.65 g/cm3 | Its density is 1.665 g/cm3 |
| Green vegetables, leafy vegetables yellow and green color fruits and vegetables such as Indian gooseberry, guava, banana, etc. contain ascorbic acid. | Lemon, grapefruit, lemonade, oranges, lime, and orange juice contain citric acid. |
