High Dose Intravenous Vitamin C Therapy
High Dose IV Vitamin C may be used alongside chemotherapy and radiation as part of an integrative care plan. Some clinical studies suggest it can support tolerance to treatment and overall quality of life.
*Dosage is individualized and determined by your Naturopathic Doctor.
Why Intravenous Vitamin C?
Integrative care brings conventional and naturopathic approaches together. IV Vitamin C is considered as an adjunct to standard oncology care, used with the goal of supporting patient comfort and tolerance to therapy.
- 💧High plasma levels not achievable orally
- 🧪ND-guided dosing & monitoring
- 🤝Adjunct to chemo/radiation plans
- 🧘Comfort-focused, patient-centred care
When to Begin?
Discuss timing with your oncology team and ND. Common scenarios:
- During chemotherapy — some studies suggest improved tolerance.
- During radiation therapy — may support symptom management.
How Often?
Frequency varies by goal (risk reduction, remission support, or active diagnosis). Your ND will tailor a plan to your context, labs, and response.
Dosing & Time
Typical individualized range is 25,000–100,000 mg; higher doses take longer. Infusions generally run 1–4 hours.
Required Blood Work (within 6 weeks)
Please confirm recent blood work (within the last 6 weeks) before starting high-dose Vitamin C. You may ask your MD to requisition these tests. If that’s not possible, our clinic can requisition them for you at a patient-paid cost.
- G6PD (mandatory for high-dose Vitamin C)
- CBC
- eGFR / Kidney function
- Liver panel (AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, LD)
- Electrolytes: Sodium, Potassium, Chloride
- Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc
- Iron studies: Ferritin, Iron Panel
- Lipids
- Vitamin B12, Vitamin D
- Homocysteine
- Amylase, Lipase
- hs-CRP, Creatine Kinase
- Thyroid: TSH, Free T3, Free T4
Your ND will review results and confirm candidacy and dosing.
Possible Side Effects
General IV-related (uncommon): pain at site, infection, phlebitis, infiltration, fluid overload, electrolyte imbalance, embolism.
Specific to IV Vitamin C (reported): fatigue post-infusion.
Training & Certification
- Accredited IV therapy certification (written & practical exams)
- Annual CPR and emergency procedure recertification
- Clinic protocols for screening, dosing, and monitoring
Enhancing Outcomes
Depending on your care plan, your ND may also recommend:
- Mistletoe injections
- Targeted botanical & nutritional support
- Acupuncture / Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Personalized nutrition & lifestyle guidance
Research & Resources
Explore selected literature on IV Vitamin C in oncology support on our Resources Page. Discuss any articles with your oncology team.
Care is individualized. Consultation required to confirm candidacy and dosing.