Vitamin C and its therapeutic potential in the management of COVID19

Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2022 Aug:50:8-14. doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2022.05.026. Epub 2022 Jun 4.

Abstract

COVID19 has emerged as one of the worst pandemics in the history of mankind. Several vaccines have been approved by different government agencies worldwide, but data on their efficacy and safety are limited, and distribution remains a massive challenge. As per WHO, personal immunity is vital for protection against COVID19. Earlier, Vitamin C-mediated pathways have been shown to play critical role in boosting immunity attributed to its antioxidant properties. Recently, the involvement of such pathways in protection against COVID19 has been suggested. The controlled doses of Vitamin C administered through intravenous (IV) injections are being studied for determining its role in the prognosis of COVID19. In this article, we have discussed the potential role of Vitamin C in the management in COVID19 patients and presented recent clinical trials data. Additionally, we have elaborated the possibility of administering Vitamin C through inhalers in order to achieve local high concentration and the challenges of such approach.

Keywords: COVID19; Nutrition; Oxidative radicals; Susceptibility; Therapeutic; Vitamin C.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Ascorbic Acid / therapeutic use
  • COVID-19 Drug Treatment*
  • Humans
  • Pandemics
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vitamins / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Vitamins
  • Ascorbic Acid