High-Dose I.V. Vitamin C Therapy
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has been studied in cancer care since the 1970s. Early clinical investigations by Scottish surgeon Ewan Cameron and Nobel Prize-winning chemist Linus Pauling explored the potential role of high-dose vitamin C in supporting patients during cancer treatment. Their work helped generate ongoing research into how vitamin C may support immune function, reduce treatment-related fatigue, and improve overall well-being during care.
Supporting the Immune System
Scientific research has demonstrated that vitamin C supports several important components of normal immune function. Studies have associated adequate vitamin C levels with healthy immune cell activity and coordinated immune responses.
- Supports antibody production
- Supports interferon production
- Supports healthy phagocytic cell function
- Supports T-lymphocyte activity
- Supports B-cell and T-cell proliferation
- Supports natural killer (NK) cell activity
- Supports prostaglandin production
- Supports nitric oxide production by phagocytic cells
The Importance of Vitamin C
Immune cells such as macrophages contain significantly higher concentrations of vitamin C than circulating blood plasma because of their active role within the immune system. Vitamin C also plays an essential role in collagen production, connective tissue health, antioxidant protection, wound healing, and normal immune defense.
Research has reported that some patients with advanced illness may have low vitamin C levels, leading investigators to explore intravenous vitamin C as supportive therapy for restoring adequate vitamin C stores during medical care.
Vitamin C and Cancer Research
Laboratory research has explored how high-dose intravenous vitamin C may affect cancer cells differently than healthy cells. Investigators at the University of Iowa have reported that some cancer cells appear less efficient at removing hydrogen peroxide generated during vitamin C metabolism, making them more susceptible to oxidative stress under laboratory conditions.
Healthy cells possess protective mechanisms, including the enzyme catalase, that help regulate hydrogen peroxide levels. These findings continue to be investigated as researchers explore the potential biological effects of high-dose intravenous vitamin C.