Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is an essential nutrient crucial for collagen synthesis, immune function, and antioxidant protection in the body.
Ascorbic acid is an essential vitamin supplement used to prevent and treat vitamin C deficiency while supporting immune function and collagen production.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A11GA01
- RxNorm
- 1151
- Generic
- Ascorbic Acid
- Class
- atc-a11
- Brands
- Ferocon, Ferraplus, Folivane-F, Hemax, Icar-C Plus, Icar C, Macuvite with Lutein, Multi-Delyn, Irospan Tablet, Lactocal, Vitafol-One, Halls Defense, Infuvite, Infuvite Pediatric, Concept OB
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral, topical
- Forms
- tablet, capsule, solution, suspension, cream, powder
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
11 groupspregnancy
first trimesterno adjustment needed for normal dietary intake
continue normal dietary intake; supplementation only if deficient
prenatal checkups
pregnancy
second trimesterno adjustment needed for normal dietary intake
maintain adequate intake through diet or prenatal vitamins
routine prenatal monitoring
pregnancy
third trimesterno adjustment needed for normal dietary intake
continue standard prenatal vitamin supplementation
routine prenatal monitoring
lactation
generalno adjustment needed
continue normal dietary intake; safe for breastfeeding mothers
none required
pediatric_age
infantsage-appropriate dosing required
use pediatric formulations; do not exceed recommended daily allowance
monitor for adverse GI effects
pediatric_age
childrenage-appropriate dosing required
follow age-specific dosage guidelines; prefer dietary sources
monitor for adverse GI effects
geriatric
generalno adjustment needed for normal renal function
continue regular intake; may benefit from supplementation if diet deficient
monitor renal function periodically
renal_impairment
milduse caution with high doses
avoid high doses; maintain normal dietary intake
monitor renal function and urine oxalate levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severeavoid high doses
limit to dietary intake only; avoid supplementation
close monitoring of renal function and oxalate levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
continue normal dietary intake
none specifically required
alcohol_users
generalmay benefit from slightly higher intake
may consider supplementation due to increased excretion; maintain balanced diet
none specifically required
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
ATC code: A11GA01 (Ascorbic Acid)
Common uses
Primary therapeutic applications
Safety profile
FDA safety classification
Availability
Prescription status
Treatment and prevention of vitamin C deficiency (scurvy), nutritional supplementation when dietary intake is insufficient, support of wound healing processes, and as an antioxidant supplement in cases of increased oxidative stress.
Ascorbic acid serves as a reducing agent in numerous biochemical reactions. It is essential for the synthesis of collagen, carnitine, and catecholamines. It also enhances non-heme iron absorption in the gut and supports various immune cell functions.
Generally well-tolerated when taken at recommended amounts. High doses may cause gastrointestinal disturbances. Should be used with caution in patients with a history of kidney stones or renal impairment. Natural sources include citrus fruits, berries, and leafy green vegetables.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy