AEGiS-ATDN: Intravenous Vitamin C Study

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2000. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

Intravenous Vitamin C Study

Information Bulletin #11 June/July 2000

Over the years, there have been many reports that high doses of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) may help fight HIV. A major problem with taking high dose vitamin C in pill form is that it can cause side effects such as diarrhea. A new study at Memorial-Sloan Kettering in New York City is looking at the effects of high-dose vitamin C given intravenously (directly into a vein). The study is a small, 29 day test to see whether larger studies would be a good idea.

On the first day of the study, participants will receive a 1 gram "loading" dose of vitamin C, followed by single 4 day continuous intravenous infusion at a dose of 10 grams per day. Testing will be done to measure blood levels of vitamin C, immune function, T-cell counts and viral load. Study follow-up will be completed on day 29. To be eligible for the study you must be on stable anti-HIV therapy unless medically contraindicated (stable therapy is defined as no changes in antiretroviral therapy for at least 8 weeks). Participants must also have a measurable but stable viral load and women should have a negative pregnancy test within 2 weeks of study entry and use birth control. For more information or to be screened for the study, call the office of Ariela Noy, MD at (212) 639-7423.
000610
TR000604

AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, iMetrikus, Inc., John M. Lloyd Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2000. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 2000. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .