IV VITAMIN C
How IV Vitamin C Therapy Works:
When given intravenously, high levels of vitamin C in the blood generate the production of hydrogen peroxide, a known toxin to cancer cells. Whereas normal cells have the ability to reduce the effects of hydrogen peroxide, cancer cells do not have the same mechanism of action in this regard.
In laboratory experiments of human lymphoma cancer cells, hydrogen peroxide exposure results in cell death. When a high dose of vitamin C is added to human lymphoma cancer cells, cell death is identical and due to the generation of hydrogen peroxide from the vitamin C2.
These experiments show vitamin C at high concentrations does not actually work as an antioxidant as it does when given orally at lower doses, but as a pro-oxidant. Pro-oxidants cause cancer cell death due to the low levels of antioxidant properties present in tumor cells. Vitamin C at high doses only acts as a pro-oxidant, similar in mechanism to some cancer medication therapies but without the toxic side effects.
Research shows that IV vitamin C prolongs survival times and improves quality of life in some cancer patients. Benefits are especially seen among patients with metastatic cancer, lung cancer, and lymphomas. More research is ongoing regarding the benefits of IV Vitamin C in disease management.
How We Administer IV Vitamin C Therapy at our Clinic in Bend:
Each patient will have a thorough consultation with the doctor regarding the best treatment for your condition. Current intravenous vitamin C protocols suggest maximum benefit from one to two infusions of 50-75 grams per week for about 6 months. After reassessment, continued treatment is typically one to two 50-75 gram infusions per month, or on an as needed basis. Each infusion takes about one hour. Although it is not necessary, it is recommended to have intravenous access through a port or PICC line.
Side Effects Of IV Vitamin C Therapy:
There are very few side effects associated with high doses of intravenous vitamin C. A very small percentage of the population has a deficiency in the enzyme known as Glucose-6-Phospate Dehydrogenase, or G6PD. This enzyme is found in the blood and is necessary for the production of glutathione in red blood cells. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant and is able to reduce hydrogen peroxide in the protection of normal cells. A simple blood test is used to determine the presence of this enzyme.
High dose vitamin C is contraindicated in patients with an iron overload disease. It is also contraindicated in patients with renal insufficiency or renal failure, or those undergoing dialysis.