Vitamin C Injections

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) injections are a staple in research for rapid immune support, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection. Unlike oral Vitamin C, which has a "saturation ceiling" in the gut, injections bypass digestion for 100% bioavailability.

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1. The Concentration & Dosage
Vitamin C for injection usually comes in pre-mixed, multi-dose vials. Because it is highly acidic, the concentration is usually quite high to keep the injection volume manageable.

• Standard Concentration: 500mg/ml.
• Vial Size: Typically 50ml or 100ml.
• Standard Research Dosage:
o Wellness/Immune Support: 500mg (1ml) to 1,000mg (2ml).
o Intensive Support: Up to 2,500mg (5ml), though high volumes are usually administered via IV rather than SubQ/IM.
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2. The Cycle (Duration & Frequency)
Vitamin C is water-soluble, meaning the body does not store it. Regular "pulses" are required to maintain high systemic levels.

Goal Duration Frequency
Immune Defense 2–4 Weeks 2 to 3 times per week
Collagen/Skin Support 8–12 Weeks 1 to 2 times per week
Acute Recovery 5–7 Days Once Daily

Timing: Vitamin C can be stimulating for some. Research doses are best administered in the morning or afternoon to avoid interfering with sleep.
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3. Administration: The "Sting" Factor
Vitamin C is notoriously acidic (low pH).

• Intramuscular (IM): The preferred method for doses over 1ml. Injecting into the glute or shoulder allows for faster absorption and less localized irritation.

• Subcutaneous (SubQ): Possible for small doses (0.5ml), but it often causes a significant "sting" or a temporary burning sensation under the skin.

• Pro-Tip: Inject slowly. Pushing the plunger quickly increases the localized "bite" of the ascorbic acid.
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4. Storage & Stability (Crucial)
Vitamin C is extremely prone to oxidation.
• Light Sensitivity: It must be kept in the original box or a dark cupboard. Light will turn the clear liquid yellow/orange.
• The "Color Check": If the liquid in the vial is yellow, amber, or brown, it has oxidized. Oxidized Vitamin C is ineffective and can be pro-oxidant (harmful). It must be clear to very faint straw-colored.
• Refrigeration: While some stable formulas are shelf-stable, keeping the vial in the fridge significantly slows the oxidation process.
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5. Potential Side Effects
• Injection Site Soreness: Common due to the acidity.
• Increased Thirst: Vitamin C has a mild diuretic effect; ensure adequate hydration.
• Kidney Stone Caution: Researchers with a history of calcium-oxalate kidney stones should avoid high-dose Vitamin C cycles, as excess ascorbic acid is converted into oxalate.
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The "Inner Glow" Stack
Researchers often pair Vitamin C with Glutathione:
1. Glutathione: The master antioxidant that "recycles" Vitamin C.
2. Vitamin C: Acts as the frontline defense and essential cofactor for the glutathione to work efficiently.