dc-vit-c
Generic Name
dc-vit-c-250-mg-chewable-tablet
Manufacturer
Drug International Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| dc vit c 250 mg chewable tablet | ৳ 1.90 | ৳ 19.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
dc-vit-c 250 mg Chewable Tablet contains Ascorbic Acid, commonly known as Vitamin C. It is a vital nutrient involved in tissue repair and the enzymatic production of certain neurotransmitters. It is essential for the function of several enzymes and is important for immune system function and antioxidant activity.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy): 250-500 mg daily in divided doses. For general health/immune support: 250-1000 mg daily. Max 2000 mg/day.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, generally no specific adjustment required. Monitor for kidney function with very high doses.
Renal_impairment
Caution is advised in severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min) due to potential for oxalate kidney stones with high doses. Consult a doctor. Generally safe at recommended nutritional doses.
How to Take
Chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing. It can be taken with or without food. Ensure adequate fluid intake.
Mechanism of Action
Ascorbic acid is a potent reducing and antioxidant agent. It acts as a co-factor in the synthesis of collagen, which is crucial for healthy skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. It also aids in iron absorption and boosts the immune system by supporting various cellular functions, including phagocyte and T-cell activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Effects generally seen within hours to days for nutritional support, but may take longer for full body store repletion.
Excretion
Excreted primarily by the kidneys, both unchanged and as metabolites, via glomerular filtration and tubular reabsorption. Excretion increases with higher doses and when plasma levels exceed renal threshold.
Half life
Approximately 10-20 days when body stores are saturated; shorter (around 30 minutes) when depleted or with high acute doses.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, primarily in the small intestine, through an active transport mechanism. Absorption efficiency decreases with increasing dose.
Metabolism
Partially metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites such as oxalate and ascorbic acid-2-sulfate.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ascorbic acid or any component of the formulation
- Patients with hyperoxaluria or a history of oxalate kidney stones (especially with high doses >1g/day)
- Patients with G6PD deficiency (high doses may cause hemolytic anemia)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Large doses (>1g/day) of Vitamin C may potentially alter the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, though clinically significant interactions are rare.
Indinavir
High doses of Vitamin C may reduce the effectiveness of indinavir (an HIV protease inhibitor).
Deferoxamine
Concurrent use may increase the risk of iron toxicity and cardiac dysfunction, especially in patients with iron overload. Administer vitamin C after deferoxamine.
Fluphenazine
High doses of Vitamin C may decrease the serum concentration of fluphenazine.
Oral Contraceptives
May decrease plasma concentrations of Vitamin C and increase estrogen levels.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until use. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose with ascorbic acid is rare due to its water-soluble nature and rapid excretion. Symptoms of excessive intake may include gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps), heartburn, headache, and fatigue. In very rare cases with extremely high chronic doses in susceptible individuals, kidney stone formation or osmotic diarrhea can occur. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended nutritional doses. High doses (pharmacological doses) should only be used if clearly needed and under medical supervision.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ascorbic acid or any component of the formulation
- Patients with hyperoxaluria or a history of oxalate kidney stones (especially with high doses >1g/day)
- Patients with G6PD deficiency (high doses may cause hemolytic anemia)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
Large doses (>1g/day) of Vitamin C may potentially alter the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, though clinically significant interactions are rare.
Indinavir
High doses of Vitamin C may reduce the effectiveness of indinavir (an HIV protease inhibitor).
Deferoxamine
Concurrent use may increase the risk of iron toxicity and cardiac dysfunction, especially in patients with iron overload. Administer vitamin C after deferoxamine.
Fluphenazine
High doses of Vitamin C may decrease the serum concentration of fluphenazine.
Oral Contraceptives
May decrease plasma concentrations of Vitamin C and increase estrogen levels.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep the tablets in their original packaging until use. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose with ascorbic acid is rare due to its water-soluble nature and rapid excretion. Symptoms of excessive intake may include gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps), heartburn, headache, and fatigue. In very rare cases with extremely high chronic doses in susceptible individuals, kidney stone formation or osmotic diarrhea can occur. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation at recommended nutritional doses. High doses (pharmacological doses) should only be used if clearly needed and under medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture, when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Ascorbic acid has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its role in preventing and treating scurvy, immune modulation, and its antioxidant properties. Research also explores its potential benefits in cardiovascular disease, cancer, and common cold, though evidence for some applications is mixed.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine lab monitoring is required for typical ascorbic acid supplementation at recommended doses. In cases of chronic high-dose use (>1g/day), kidney function may be monitored, especially in individuals prone to oxalate stone formation.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on the importance of adhering to recommended dosages to avoid potential gastrointestinal upset and, rarely, kidney stone formation with very high doses.
- Emphasize Vitamin C's role as an essential nutrient and antioxidant, beneficial for overall health and immune function.
- Counsel patients that this is a supplement and should not replace a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or as indicated on the label. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
- Chew the tablet completely before swallowing to ensure proper absorption.
- If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, consult your doctor immediately.
- Store the tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
dc-vit-c 250 mg Chewable Tablet is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. No special precautions are necessary.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits (especially citrus fruits, berries) and vegetables to ensure natural Vitamin C intake.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, especially when taking supplements.
- Avoid smoking, as it depletes Vitamin C levels in the body.
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