Mega-C
Generic Name
Ascorbic Acid
Manufacturer
Popular Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| mega c 500 mg injection | ৳ 6.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Mega-C 500 mg Injection contains Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), a vital water-soluble vitamin necessary for growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. It is involved in many body functions, including the formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For severe deficiency: 500 mg to 1000 mg daily by IM or IV injection. For general supplementation: 500 mg once daily.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, with caution in renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; dose adjustment may be necessary in severe renal impairment (e.g., hemodialysis patients).
How to Take
Administered intramuscularly (IM) or intravenously (IV). For IV administration, it can be diluted in saline or dextrose solution and infused slowly.
Mechanism of Action
Ascorbic acid is a potent reducing and antioxidant agent. It plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes, including the formation of collagen and other intercellular ground substances, tissue repair, and synthesis of lipids and proteins. It acts as a co-factor for several enzymes and is essential for normal immune function.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Immediate (IV), rapid (IM)
Excretion
Excreted primarily in urine, mainly as unchanged drug or as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 30 minutes in plasma; 2.9 hours in tissue.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed after intramuscular or intravenous administration.
Metabolism
Partially metabolized to inactive compounds, including diketogulonic acid and oxalic acid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ascorbic acid or any component of the formulation
- Patients with hyperoxaluria or oxalosis
- Severe renal impairment (high doses)
Drug Interactions
Deferoxamine
High doses of Vitamin C may enhance iron toxicity in patients receiving deferoxamine, especially in cardiac tissue. Administer Vitamin C after deferoxamine has been infused for several hours.
Iron supplements
Enhances iron absorption, which can be beneficial but should be monitored in conditions like hemochromatosis.
Anticoagulants (Warfarin)
High doses of Vitamin C might interfere with the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring monitoring of INR.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Ascorbic acid has low toxicity. Very high doses may cause gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps) and potentially hyperoxaluria. Treatment is supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe in recommended doses during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a doctor for specific advice.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ascorbic acid or any component of the formulation
- Patients with hyperoxaluria or oxalosis
- Severe renal impairment (high doses)
Drug Interactions
Deferoxamine
High doses of Vitamin C may enhance iron toxicity in patients receiving deferoxamine, especially in cardiac tissue. Administer Vitamin C after deferoxamine has been infused for several hours.
Iron supplements
Enhances iron absorption, which can be beneficial but should be monitored in conditions like hemochromatosis.
Anticoagulants (Warfarin)
High doses of Vitamin C might interfere with the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring monitoring of INR.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Ascorbic acid has low toxicity. Very high doses may cause gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps) and potentially hyperoxaluria. Treatment is supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe in recommended doses during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a doctor for specific advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical use has established the efficacy and safety of ascorbic acid. Specific trials for this brand are unlikely, but general Vitamin C research supports its use.
Lab Monitoring
- Not routinely required. In cases of chronic high dose use, urinary oxalate levels might be monitored in susceptible individuals.
Doctor Notes
- Ensure correct dilution for IV administration.
- Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity.
- Advise patients on dietary sources of Vitamin C.
Patient Guidelines
- Administered by a healthcare professional
- Report any unusual side effects immediately
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
No known effects on driving ability.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid smoking, as it depletes vitamin C
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Global Brand Names
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