Ursovit C

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Ursovit C

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Sodium Ascorbate (L-Ascorbic Acid Sodium Salt)
Form Sterile Solution for Injection (Ampoules); Oral Solutions
Pharmacological class Water-soluble Vitamin; Essential Micronutrient
Common use Prevention and correction of Vitamin C deficiency
Origin Synthetic (industrially produced)

Ursovit C is a pharmaceutical preparation whose active component is Sodium Ascorbate (INN: Sodium Ascorbate), a highly soluble, non-acidic salt form of L-Ascorbic Acid, commonly known as Vitamin C. Its core function is to provide the body with a concentrated, pharmaceutical-grade source of this essential compound for nutritional support, a necessity clinically recognized across numerous medical scenarios.


Ursovit C: Definition and Pharmacological Classification

Ursovit C is strictly defined as a water-soluble vitamin and an essential micronutrient, placing it within the therapeutic domain of nutritional medicine. The active ingredient is generally synthetic in origin, produced via industrial processes to guarantee high purity. L-Ascorbate is necessary for the biosynthesis of collagen and L-carnitine. As a water-soluble compound, it is not significantly stored in the body, which dictates the necessity for regular administration.


Composition and Available Forms of Ursovit C

The drug is a single-ingredient product composed solely of Sodium Ascorbate (C6H7NaO6) dissolved in an aqueous solution base. Sodium Ascorbate typically contains no less than 99.0% of the active compound. Ursovit C is supplied as a sterile solution for injection in ampoules, primarily intended for the parenteral route of administration (intravenous or intramuscular). This injectable format differentiates it from common over-the-counter supplements, positioning it for targeted use in hospital settings or for individuals with conditions leading to rapid deficiency or severe malabsorption.


Primary Function and General Benefit

The general function of Ursovit C is to directly supply L-Ascorbate to address deficiency states and maintain critical physiological functions. As a powerful physiological reducing agent, this essential micronutrient is crucial, serving as a vital cofactor for numerous enzymatic reactions necessary for the synthesis of collagen, thereby supporting tissue repair and structural integrity. The overall benefit is ensuring the continuous, optimal operation of these fundamental metabolic processes, which is exemplified in situations requiring the management of confirmed hypovitaminosis C.

Regulatory References

  1. USP-NF Sodium Ascorbate Monograph

What side effects are possible with Ursovit C?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Ursovit C (Ursodeoxycholic Acid) is based on data documented by regulatory authorities. Side effects are classified by how often they occur and which body systems they affect.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The following table summarizes adverse reactions based on their officially documented frequency:

Frequency Category Adverse Reaction (System Organ Class)
Common (1 to 10 users in 100) Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., pasty stools, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort)
Very Rare (Less than 1 user in 10,000) Hepatobiliary disorders (e.g., decompensation of hepatic cirrhosis, calcification of gallstones); Skin disorders (e.g., urticaria)

Serious Adverse Reactions

The most clinically significant adverse reactions documented in regulatory sources include the decompensation of hepatic cirrhosis (observed in patients with advanced Primary Biliary Cirrhosis, which may partially regress upon discontinuation) and calcification of gallstones.

Safety Restrictions and Monitoring

The medicine is contraindicated and must not be used in patients with specific conditions, including radio-opaque calcified gallstones, acute inflammation of the gallbladder or biliary tract, biliary occlusion, and impaired gallbladder contractility. Use during pregnancy and lactation is generally restricted or forbidden, and women of childbearing potential should use non-hormonal contraception.

To ensure safety, liver function tests must be monitored regularly during the first few months of therapy, and periodically thereafter, as defined in official labeling.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Map: Overdose and when to seek help — Official Regulatory Information for Ursovit C

Domain Official Regulatory Statements
Documented overdose presentations Overdose may initially present with gastrointestinal effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps) and minor systemic effects (headache, disturbed sleep) [Source 1.1].
Physiological systems affected (as stated in label) Primarily affects the Renal system (risk of acute renal failure, oxalate nephropathy) and the Hematologic system (risk of hemolysis and hemolytic anaemia) [Source 2.3, 3.1].
Dose-related or exposure-related factors Massive ascorbic acid overdosage is documented to potentially lead to acute renal failure [Source 2.3]. Daily use of high doses is associated with the risk of oxalate stone formation [Source 1.1].
Population-specific overdose notes Patients with Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency are at increased risk for severe hemolysis [Source 3.1]. Patients with renal disease are at increased risk for oxalate nephropathy [Source 3.1].
Emergency-response statements Management involves providing general supportive measures and symptomatic treatment [Source 2.5]. No specific antidote is documented in the labeling [Synthesis of regulatory sources].
When immediate medical help is required Seek immediate medical attention for experiencing any adverse symptoms after having taken more than the recommended amount [Source 1.1].

Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Aspect Official Regulatory Statement
Severity classification Overdosage is classified by regulatory authorities as potentially leading to severe and life-threatening outcomes, specifically acute renal failure and severe hemolysis in vulnerable patients [Source 2.3, 3.1].
Regulatory basis Information is derived from authoritative governmental prescribing information (e.g., FDA Prescribing Information and EMA data) for Sodium Ascorbate/Ascorbic Acid [Synthesis of regulatory sources].
Overdose-context constraints Overdose risks are constrained by patient factors such as G6PD deficiency and pre-existing renal impairment [Source 3.1].

Connection to the Overall Overdose Profile

The official regulatory profile for Ursovit C overdose mandates immediate medical attention due to the documented potential for severe physiological damage, particularly the risk of renal failure and the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones from excessive metabolite accumulation. Although initial symptoms may involve gastrointestinal upset, the primary risk identified in regulatory text involves the renal and hematologic systems. Management for overdose is officially defined as symptomatic and supportive treatment.

Therapeutic Uses of Ursovit C

What Ursovit C Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Ursovit C (Sodium Ascorbate) is a pharmaceutical preparation primarily used to address the clinical consequences of severe Vitamin C deficiency and supports the body's ability to manage processes related to tissue repair. Its primary utility is considered relevant for managing conditions caused by an absolute lack of this crucial micronutrient. It is commonly used to help prevent and treat Scurvy.

The medication helps address symptom clusters related to systemic imbalance and physical discomfort, including extreme fatigue, generalized weakness, and symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain. It is commonly applied in scenarios where short-term symptomatic assistance is needed to support patients with acute deficiency, chronic malabsorption issues, or those in high metabolic demand states like post-operative recovery.

Ursovit C may help mitigate the risk of severe deficiency symptoms in vulnerable groups, such as individuals with gastrointestinal disorders or those undergoing renal dialysis, who cannot absorb sufficient nutrients orally. This supportive use helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable.

“This preparation supports the physiological processes involved in maintaining tissue integrity and helps manage the physical strain associated with severe nutritional deficits.”

It is generally used to help address Hypovitaminosis C, symptoms related to physical discomfort, difficulty with functional stability, and signs of irritative states in the gums.

Quick Fact: Relief for Deficiency
Primary Focus Managing symptoms arising from severe nutritional deficiency (Hypovitaminosis C / Scurvy).
Symptom Support Helps ease physical discomfort related to bleeding issues and connective tissue weakness.
Context of Use Applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns where oral intake is compromised.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview on Ascorbic Acid

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Ursovit C? — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility for using Ursovit C (Sodium Ascorbate Injection) is strictly defined by regulatory documents, focusing on patient age, existing conditions, and physiological status.


Contraindicated and Restricted Populations

Population Group Restriction Status (Label-Based)
Hypersensitivity Contraindicated (Known allergy to the substance)
Severe Renal Insufficiency Contraindicated (High-dose formulations)
Iron Overload Disorders Contraindicated (High-dose formulations)
G6PD Deficiency Restricted (Use only a reduced dose)
Renal Impairment/History of Stones Conditional Use (Increased risk; requires monitoring)

Age and Physiological Status

Use is not recommended for infants younger than 5 months of age. Pediatric patients under two years and older adults require special caution and monitoring due to a heightened risk of oxalate-related kidney issues. For pregnant and lactating women, use is permitted but must not exceed the U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for the injectable formulation. Furthermore, regulatory labeling indicates that safety and effectiveness are not established for prolonged administration (use beyond one week) in any patient population.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Ursodeoxycholic acid, the active ingredient in Ursovit C, is subject to specific documented interactions with other medicinal products and substances, as outlined in official regulatory information. These interactions primarily affect the absorption or efficacy of Ursodeoxycholic acid itself or alter the levels of co-administered drugs.

Documented Interacting Substances

Interaction Type Interacting Medicines/Categories Interaction-Related Constraint
Reduced Absorption/Efficacy Bile Acid Sequestering Agents (e.g., cholestyramine, colestipol); Aluminum-based Antacids (containing aluminum hydroxide/smectite) Should not be administered concomitantly due to binding in the intestine.
Counteracted Efficacy Drugs that increase hepatic cholesterol secretion (e.g., estrogens, oral contraceptives, clofibrate) Avoid co-administration as these may impair treatment success.
Altered Drug Levels Substrates of the CYP3A4 enzyme (e.g., ciclosporin, nitrendipine, dapsone) Requires monitoring and potential dose adjustment of the co-administered drug (e.g., ciclosporin) or Ursodeoxycholic acid itself.

Co-administration with nitrendipine and dapsone may lead to reduced efficacy of these medications, and close monitoring is recommended. Separately, co-administration with rosuvastatin has been observed to result in increased plasma levels of rosuvastatin. Patients should inform their healthcare professional about all concurrent medications, including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements, to properly manage these documented interactions.

Mechanism of Action

Enzyme Cofactor Function in Structural Integrity

Ursovit C, via its active component L-Ascorbate, functions as a reducing agent essential for activating Prolyl-4-hydroxylase and Lysyl hydroxylase enzymes. By maintaining the required ferrous iron ( Fe^2+) state at the enzyme active sites, the mechanism enables the post-translational modification of procollagen, which is critical for forming the stable collagen triple helix. This process facilitates the formation and stabilization of the connective tissue structure, including bone and vascular walls.

Modulation of Redox Homeostasis and Metabolic Pathways

The molecule acts as a water-soluble reducing agent that directly neutralizes Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and free radicals in the aqueous compartments of the cell. This radical scavenging mechanism terminates oxidative chain reactions, resulting in the reduction of systemic oxidative load and the stabilization of cellular redox balance. Additionally, L-Ascorbate acts as an indispensable cofactor for enzymes like Dopamine beta-hydroxylase and gamma-Butyrobetaine hydroxylase, thereby regulating the biosynthesis of the neurotransmitter Norepinephrine and the metabolic transport molecule L-Carnitine.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Ursovit C

Ursovit C (Sodium Ascorbate Injection) is administered according to standardized protocols to address states of severe Vitamin C deficiency.

Administration and Preparation Principles

The most common route of administration when oral intake is compromised is by intravenous (IV) infusion; however, intramuscular (IM) and subcutaneous (SC) routes are also utilized. The solution must be diluted before use and is administered as a slow infusion, never as an undiluted, rapid injection. To ensure proper delivery, the final admixture must be prepared to be isotonic using compatible solutions like 5% Dextrose Injection. Preparation requires the use of aseptic technique, and the product must be protected from light to maintain stability.


Standard Dosing Regimens and Schedule

Treatment follows a once-daily schedule for a short duration, which reflects its use in acute deficiency. The recommended maximum duration of daily IV treatment should not exceed 7 days.

Population Group Typical Daily Dosing Regimen (IV) Infusion Rate (Adults ge 11)
Adults (ge 11 years) 200 mg once daily 33 mg/minute
Pediatric (1 year to < 11 years) 100 mg once daily N/A
Pediatric (5 months to < 12 months) 50 mg once daily N/A

Guidelines may also specify curative doses for scurvy treatment ranging from 0.5 g to 1 g daily. Notably, the injectable form is often supplied as a Pharmacy Bulk Package, which dictates that the entire contents of the vial must not be given to a single patient.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Ursovit C

Evidence for Treatment of Severe Vitamin C Deficiency (Scurvy)

The primary research for Ursovit C focuses on the repletion of severe Vitamin C deficiency (Scurvy). Since clinical trials are difficult for acute deficiency, the evidence relies mainly on historical prospective studies and published clinical literature. These studies observed the time-course of changes in physical signs like bleeding and monitored the restoration of measurable Vitamin C levels. Regulatory bodies worldwide rely on the consistency of these patterns for the authorization of the drug’s use. The chief limitation is the absence of recent, large-scale controlled trials.

Research Landscape for Acute and High Metabolic Demand States

Injectable Sodium Ascorbate was evaluated in research for supportive use during critical illness (e.g., sepsis) and post-operative recovery. This research involves small-scale pilot trials and observational studies examining biomarkers and changes in organ dysfunction scores. Findings from these exploratory studies were mixed or inconsistent regarding major endpoints like hospital length of stay. Overall, the evidence in this area is generally considered limited, providing initial insights but lacking definitive clinical outcomes.

Research Gaps and Limitations

The available data highlights several uncertainties. For the acute deficiency use, research provides limited information on long-term patient-reported outcomes. For supportive roles, certainty remains low due to small sample sizes and widely varying administration protocols, meaning the optimal treatment schedule is not fully established. Follow-up durations were typically short (30 days), and comparative evidence is often lacking for specific subgroups, including patients with complex comorbidities.

Key Studies & References

  1. Sailors' scurvy before and after James Lind—a reassessment (Review of Historical Evidence)
  2. The effect of vitamin C in adults with sepsis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Ursovit C (FAQ)

Q: How quickly does Ursovit C typically begin to work for its main intended use?

A: Studies and official information indicate that this medication is administered to treat acute deficiency states. Observations of patients with severe deficiency (scurvy) show that the restoration of deficiency markers and the reversal of physical signs is described as beginning quickly following administration of the injectable solution.

Q: If I stop taking Ursovit C, do the effects wear off immediately?

A: According to the official product information, the active ingredient, L-Ascorbate, is classified as a water-soluble vitamin. Because it is not significantly stored in the body and is readily excreted, its direct physiological action is temporary. This characteristic indicates that its effects do not persist long after administration ceases.

Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks that should be avoided when taking Ursovit C?

A: Official regulatory labeling does not typically list specific food or drink items that must be avoided alongside this injection. However, the labeling notes that high doses of ascorbic acid may potentially interfere with certain laboratory tests, such as tests for urinary glucose.

Q: Does Ursovit C interact with common blood pressure medications?

A: Regulatory documents describe interactions with certain types of medicines, including the blood pressure medication nitrendipine. Certain interactions, such as with nitrendipine, are described in official documents. Additionally, because the formulation contains sodium, its use requires consideration for individuals with conditions that require sodium restriction, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or congestive heart failure.

Q: How long does the primary ingredient in Ursovit C stay in the body?

A: As a water-soluble compound, the active ingredient is quickly absorbed and then eliminated from the body. Official pharmacokinetic information indicates that the half-life of L-Ascorbate in the bloodstream is typically a few hours.

Q: Is it described in official sources that Ursovit C can cause nausea?

A: Yes, official documents detailing the medicine’s safety profile list gastrointestinal issues as potential side effects. These reactions commonly include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and stomach cramps.

Q: Why do some people say Ursovit C is used for [Condition not listed in official uses]?

A: The official and approved use for this injectable medicine is strictly defined by regulatory bodies and is limited to the prevention and treatment of severe Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy). Any discussion of other uses beyond this specific indication is not supported by the current regulatory authorization.

Q: I heard Ursovit C can affect liver tests; is this a common concern?

A: Official prescribing information describes the regular monitoring of liver function tests during the first few months of therapy and periodically thereafter. This monitoring is mandated due to the potential for rare, serious liver-related reactions documented in official safety information.

Q: Is it normal to feel [mild, non-serious side effect] during the first week on Ursovit C?

A: Official safety information classifies adverse reactions by their frequency. Mild gastrointestinal issues are listed as 'common.' This means they are reactions that may be experienced by 1 to 10 users in every 100, indicating they may occur during the initial phase of use.

Q: Is Ursovit C considered a 'long-term' or 'short-term' medication?

A: This injectable formulation is intended for short-term use in acute deficiency. Official prescribing information states that the recommended maximum duration of daily intravenous treatment should not typically exceed 7 days. Safety and effectiveness have generally not been established for prolonged administration beyond one week.

Q: Can individuals with a history of kidney stones use Ursovit C?

A: Regulatory information classifies use in patients with a history of kidney stones or existing renal impairment as conditional. Use is subject to conditional prescribing, which necessitates careful clinical monitoring due to the increased risk of oxalate-related kidney issues.

Q: Is there any research about Ursovit C use in the elderly population?

A: Official regulatory documents advise special caution and monitoring for older adults when administering this medicine. This guidance is based on a potentially heightened risk of oxalate-related kidney issues in this population.

Q: Are there any known severe allergic reactions associated with Ursovit C?

A: Yes, hypersensitivity, or a known allergy to the substance or its components, is listed as a contraindication—meaning use of the drug is forbidden according to regulatory definitions. Documented adverse reactions in the class of injectable vitamins have included severe systemic reactions, such as anaphylaxis.

Q: Does Ursovit C contain any ingredients that are known allergens?

A: The product is primarily a solution of Sodium Ascorbate in an aqueous base. The official documents list the active and inactive ingredients (such as Edetate Disodium and Sodium Bicarbonate). The complete list of ingredients is available in the official prescribing information for review.

Q: Is it true that Ursovit C can be used to support general wellness?

A: The regulatory approval for this injectable medicine is based on its ability to treat and prevent severe Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy). It is not authorized for the purpose of general wellness support.

Q: Are there different strengths of Ursovit C available?

A: Yes, the injectable solution is supplied in various concentrations and volumes. For example, official prescribing information lists a common concentration such as 500 mg/mL, although specific strengths may vary based on the specific product formulation.

Q: Does the time of day I take Ursovit C matter for its effectiveness?

A: The official dosing schedule for the treatment of acute deficiency is typically once daily. Regulatory documents do not usually specify a required time of day for administration to maintain the medicine's effectiveness.

Q: Can Ursovit C be safely used by people with diabetes?

A: Official warnings indicate that high doses of ascorbic acid (doses over 500 mg daily) may interfere with the accuracy of certain urinary glucose tests in patients with diabetes, which could potentially lead to false readings.

Q: Is there a generic version of Ursovit C, and is it equivalent?

A: The active ingredient, ascorbic acid injection, is available under various brand names and has FDA-approved generic equivalent versions. These are reviewed by regulatory bodies to confirm they meet the same quality, strength, and effectiveness standards as the original product.

Q: Are headaches a potential side effect of Ursovit C?

A: Yes, headaches are listed as a potential adverse reaction in the official safety documents for the medicine.

Q: Are there specific warnings about driving or operating machinery while on Ursovit C?

A: Side effects such as temporary faintness or dizziness have been reported, particularly when the medicine is administered rapidly intravenously. Safety documents include warnings that patients should be aware of their reaction to the medicine before driving or operating machinery.

Q: Can Ursovit C be crushed or split if a person has trouble swallowing?

A: No, Ursovit C is supplied as a sterile solution for injection. This dosage form is intended only for administration via intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous routes, and is not a solid form like a tablet or capsule that can be crushed or split.

Q: Does Ursovit C interact with herbal supplements like St. John's Wort?

A: According to official drug interaction records, no clinically significant interaction is typically found between L-Ascorbate and St. John’s Wort. It is important that healthcare professionals are informed about all concurrent supplements, whether herbal or pharmaceutical, to ensure safe management.

Q: Are there special considerations for people with heart conditions using Ursovit C?

A: The formulation contains sodium, which means its use requires consideration for individuals with heart conditions that necessitate sodium restriction, such as congestive heart failure or hypertension.

Q: Does Ursovit C contain lactose or gluten?

A: The formulation is a sterile solution containing the active ingredient and standard excipients. Official information does not indicate the presence of common food allergens like lactose or gluten in this injectable product.

How should Ursovit C be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Ursovit C?

Storing Ursovit C (Sodium Ascorbate Injection) requires strict adherence to regulatory conditions to maintain stability.


Storage Requirements

The product must be protected from light and stored in its original carton until use. Storage temperature is specified as either controlled room temperature or refrigerated (2 C to 8 C), depending on the formulation. The solution must be clear prior to administration. Unused portions of the vial must be discarded within a few hours after the initial puncture. Keep the medication out of the reach and sight of children.


Disposal Instructions

Dispose of unused or expired Ursovit C and its packaging in compliance with appropriate federal or state regulations. Consult local and national guidelines for the proper disposal of pharmaceutical waste.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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