Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has been investigated for its potential to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and improve quality of life in cancer patients. The scientific rationale stems from its antioxidant properties, which theoretically may help mitigate oxidative stress and tissue damage caused by certain chemotherapeutic agents. Some preclinical studies and small clinical trials have suggested that intravenous vitamin C could reduce symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and pain, and might help protect normal tissues from chemotherapy-induced toxicity without interfering with the effectiveness of the cancer treatment itself. However, results across studies are inconsistent, and the quality of evidence remains low to moderate.

Randomized controlled trials are limited and often involve small sample sizes, with mixed findings regarding actual improvements in side effect profiles. Importantly, oral vitamin C supplementation does not reach the plasma concentrations studied in most clinical trials, which use high-dose intravenous vitamin C. Some oncologists express concern that antioxidants like vitamin C might interfere with the oxidative mechanisms by which certain chemotherapeutic agents kill cancer cells, though recent studies suggest this risk is likely minimal at clinically used doses. Major cancer organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, note that more rigorous research is needed before vitamin C can be recommended routinely for this purpose. For now, its use is considered experimental and should be discussed with an oncology care team.

More about vitamin C
More about Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)

Other ingredients used for Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)

Other health conditions supported by vitamin C

Products containing vitamin C

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