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Vitamin C × Chemotherapy

MODERATE Inconclusive Evidence

Mechanism

High-dose vitamin C may protect tumor cells from oxidative damage caused by some chemotherapies, or may interfere with pro-oxidant mechanisms of certain agents.

Effect

Possible reduction in chemotherapy efficacy

Management

Avoid high-dose vitamin C (>500mg/day) during chemotherapy without oncologist approval.

Plain Language Summary

✨ AI-generated · Qwen 3.6 · grounded in 2 sources · methodology

Taking high doses of Vitamin C during chemotherapy may be risky because it could interfere with the treatment's effectiveness. High amounts of this vitamin might protect tumor cells from the damage the chemotherapy is intended to cause.

Source

Lawenda BD et al. J Natl Cancer Inst 2008

Research

Supporting Research

Vitamin E supplementation in pregnancy
PMID:26343254 DOI 2015
Nutritional interventions for preventing and treating pressure ulcers
PMID:38345088 DOI 2024
Does Vitamin C Supplementation Provide a Protective Effect in Periodontal Health? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
PMID:39201285 DOI 2024
Circulating vitamin C concentration and risk of cancers: a Mendelian randomization study
PMID:34325683 DOI 2021
Vitamin C in Critically Ill Patients: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
PMID:34684565 DOI 2021
Reminder packaging for improving adherence to self-administered long-term medications
PMID:21901694 DOI 2011
Nutritional interventions for preventing and treating pressure ulcers
PMID:24919719 DOI 2014
Interventions to reduce haemorrhage during myomectomy for fibroids
PMID:25125317 DOI 2014
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Medical Disclaimer: This interaction record is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining any supplement with prescription medications.