The primary use of ascorbic acid solution is in the treatment of vitamin C deficiencies in individuals. When people don't get enough vitamin C in their regular diet, numerous problems can result. The most common symptoms of a vitamin C deficiency are skin irritation, lack of energy, and muscle weakness. Ascorbic acid solution is often prescribed by physicians under the brand names Cecon and Protexin. The vitamin is a vital component in maintaining a healthy body and immune system.
Vitamin C is considered a water-soluble vitamin. This means the vitamin is not produced or stored in the body and must be ingested daily. Most people get more than enough vitamin C from the foods they eat. Some people may have a mild vitamin C deficiency, but this can usually be remedied by increasing the intake of citrus foods in their diet or by taking over-the-counter vitamin C supplements. In rarer cases, physicians may determine that a patient has a severe vitamin C deficiency and prescribe either ascorbic acid pills or an ascorbic acid solution to remedy the imbalance.
When a vitamin C deficiency exists, the body becomes less adept at healing wounds and repairing tissues. As a result, rashes along with other skin irritations may surface. As the condition worsens, the person may notice a drop in energy levels and muscle weakness as the deficiency does not let the body do normal tissue and organ repairs. Free radicals begin to build up and can eventually lead to various forms of cancer and arthritis. Other common symptoms include bruising easily, damaged or split hairs, and inflamed gums.
The most severe cases of vitamin C deficiency result in a condition known as scurvy. When scurvy is left untreated, it can result in hair loss, severe joint pain, and loss of teeth. Although cases of scurvy are uncommon in industrialized countries, they do occur in other parts of the world. It's also been medically documented that smokers are at an increased risk of vitamin C deficiencies because the chemicals found in cigarettes lower the vitamin C levels in the body. In all of these instances, taking an ascorbic acid solution can get the body's vitamin C levels back into the normal range.
Ascorbic acid solution can be taken directly through the mouth, or mixed with other food or drink and then ingested. Dosage amounts will vary from patient to patient, so it's important to follow the physician's prescription. As a general rule, patients take one dose twice daily. It should also be noted that there can be side effects that range from varying different allergic reactions to nausea and vomiting.
