C-Max

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

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 C-Max

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Sodium Ascorbate (L-Ascorbate Monosodium Salt)
Form Oral forms (tablet/capsule) and sterile solution for injection
Pharmacological class Vitamin Supplement (Water-Soluble Vitamin)
Common use Prophylactic and therapeutic support against deficiency
Origin Derived; semi-synthetic mineral salt

What Type of Medicine is C-Max? (Identity and Class)

C-Max is recognized as a specialized pharmaceutical preparation for systemic use, functioning as a Vitamin Supplement within the broad Pharmacological Class of Water-Soluble Vitamins. Its core identity is rooted in its active ingredient, Sodium Ascorbate, which is the mineral salt of Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C). Ascorbic Acid is an essential nutrient that the human body cannot produce internally.

The medicine is utilized for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes, such as in cases of dietary insufficiency. As a single-ingredient product, it provides focused nutritional support that is important for overall metabolic health.


Composition, Origin, and Available Forms

The active ingredient, Sodium Ascorbate, is a derived compound, chemically manufactured as a salt to enhance key properties. This salt formulation is a significant differentiating factor, as it yields a near-neutral pH solution compared to pure Ascorbic Acid. This property is intended to result in increased patient tolerance, making the preparation suitable for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or those requiring large systemic doses.

C-Max is typically available in various dosage forms to accommodate different needs and routes of administration. These forms include common solid oral forms (such as tablets or capsules) for routine intake, as well as specialized sterile aqueous solutions intended for parenteral (injection) administration in clinical settings.


What is the General Purpose of Taking C-Max? (Core Benefit)

The general purpose of C-Max is to supply the body with Vitamin C to support physical structure and defense systems. This is achieved through its primary mechanism as an Antioxidant, which neutralizes free radicals and helps protect cells and tissues from oxidative stress. Furthermore, the compound acts as a necessary cofactor for numerous enzymes, enabling collagen synthesis and the stability of connective tissue repair. By supporting these foundational processes, the medicine contributes to maintaining tissue integrity and immune function.

What side effects are possible with C-Max?

C-Max: Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Clinically Significant and Serious Adverse Reactions

The most significant safety concern associated with C-Max, as documented in regulatory labeling, is the potential for Serotonin Syndrome, a serious condition that can occur with the use of serotonergic drugs, particularly when co-administered with other agents that affect serotonin levels. Symptoms can include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, confusion), autonomic instability (e.g., rapid heart rate, fluctuating blood pressure, hyperthermia, sweating), and neuromuscular abnormalities (e.g., tremor, overactive reflexes, muscle rigidity).

Other serious adverse reactions reported include Seizures, Hepatotoxicity (severe liver injury, rarely fulminant hepatitis), and the risk of Abnormal Bleeding. Patients should be monitored for these effects, especially when starting therapy or increasing the dose.

Common Adverse Reactions

The most frequently occurring adverse reactions, generally reported in at least 5% of patients and at a rate greater than placebo, primarily involve the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. These common effects include:

  • Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth.
  • Nervous System: Headache, dizziness, insomnia, hot flush, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
  • Cardiovascular: Palpitations, increased heart rate, and hypertension (elevated blood pressure).

Safety Monitoring and Restrictions

Safety monitoring is required, including the measurement of blood pressure and heart rate before treatment initiation and periodically thereafter due to the risk of hypertension and heart rate increase. Caution is advised for male patients with obstructive uropathies due to potential genitourinary adverse events, and for all patients with a history of seizure disorder or angle-closure glaucoma. Patients should be observed for clinical worsening and the emergence of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially children, adolescents, and young adults under 25. Abrupt discontinuation is discouraged, and a gradual dose reduction is recommended to manage potential withdrawal symptoms.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help — Official Regulatory Information for C-Max

Overdose Scope

C-Max is a combination product that carries two major risks of severe overdose: liver injury from the acetaminophen component and respiratory depression from the opioid component.

  • Documented Overdose Presentations: Severe liver injury, including cases of acute liver failure leading to liver transplant and death, is a primary risk from excessive acetaminophen. Opioid overdose presents as slowed or difficult breathing, severe sleepiness, unresponsiveness, or coma. Allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face, mouth, and throat, or difficulty breathing, also require immediate attention.

  • Dose-Related or Exposure-Related Factors: Risk increases when the maximum total daily dose of acetaminophen (4 grams/day) is exceeded, often unintentionally by taking multiple acetaminophen-containing products. The risk of life-threatening respiratory depression and sedation is significantly increased when the opioid component is combined with benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants.

Emergency Response

Immediate medical help is required if you:

  1. Suspect you have taken more acetaminophen than directed.
  2. Experience signs of an allergic reaction (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing).
  3. Exhibit symptoms of CNS depression (extreme sleepiness, difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness) after taking this medication, especially if combined with other depressants.

Patients should be aware of these specific risks and informed about the importance of reading all product labels to prevent unintentional overdose.

Therapeutic Uses of C-Max

C-Max is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes and symptoms related to systemic imbalance. It generally supports patients across two main therapeutic domains. The medication is applied in addressing conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort across domains like the respiratory tract, urinary system, skin/soft tissues, and ear/sinuses. These applications are established within its primary therapeutic use.


Fights Infection and Relieves Acute Symptoms

This primary use provides support that helps ease symptoms related to physical discomfort and systemic imbalance, such as fever, pain, and localized inflammation. The combination is considered relevant for easing symptoms associated with acute or disruptive episodes. This may contribute to easing the overall symptom load and supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress.

“This medication plays a role in managing symptoms that cluster into patterns requiring supportive management, such as those that appear suddenly or intensify over time.”


Supports Digestive Comfort During Treatment

This medication plays a role in managing digestive symptoms that can occur with antibiotic use, such as diarrhea. This supportive action is relevant for easing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort. It may assist with managing symptom clusters that create noticeable functional strain and contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms, helping patients cope more steadily with the full course of treatment.


Quick Fact: Support for Digestive Comfort


Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use C-Max?

The population eligibility for C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) is strictly defined by regulatory documents, distinguishing between approved groups and those subject to restriction or prohibition.

Eligibility Scope

Category Regulatory Status Official Restriction Context
Contraindicated Hypersensitivity Patients with known hypersensitivity to Ascorbic Acid or formulation components.
Allowed Use Approved Age Group Adults and Pediatric Patients age 5 months and older are approved for use.
Use Not Established Infants Use has not been established for children less than 5 months of age.

Conditional Use and Restrictions

Use of C-Max is conditional and requires caution in specific populations due to the risk of adverse metabolic effects, particularly when high doses are administered.

  • G6PD Deficiency: Patients with Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase deficiency are restricted to a reduced dose and must not exceed the U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA).
  • Renal Impairment: Use is restricted for patients with renal disease or a history of oxalate kidney stones due to the increased risk of oxalate nephropathy.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Pregnant and lactating women are restricted to a dose that does not exceed the RDA or Adequate Intake (AI) for their condition.
  • Geriatric Patients: Older adults may also be at an increased risk for oxalate nephropathy.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

C-Max (Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium) has documented interactions with several categories of medicinal products, necessitating specific clinical precautions as outlined in official regulatory information.


Key Interacting Agents and Constraints

Interacting Product Category Regulatory Constraint or Requirement
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) Coagulation parameters, such as Prothrombin Time/INR, must be carefully monitored due to the potential for prolongation. Dose adjustments of the anticoagulant may be required.
Allopurinol Concurrent use is associated with an increased incidence of rash or other allergic skin reactions.
Probenecid Co-administration is generally not recommended as it decreases the renal tubular secretion of the amoxicillin component, resulting in increased and prolonged blood levels of amoxicillin.
Oral Contraceptives May potentially reduce the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives.
Methotrexate Penicillins, including C-Max, may reduce the excretion of methotrexate, which can lead to a potential increase in its toxicity.

Interaction-Related Procedural Notes

Laboratory Tests: This medicine can interfere with certain lab procedures. It may cause false-positive results in non-enzymatic urine glucose tests. Additionally, caution is advised regarding positive results from the Bio-Rad Platelia Aspergillus EIA test in patients receiving this product, as these should be confirmed by alternative diagnostic methods. Co-administration should also be avoided in patients with suspected infectious mononucleosis due to the associated risk of developing a morbilliform rash.

Mechanism of Action

C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) functions as a foundational biological reductant and essential enzyme cofactor, mechanisms that govern critical synthesis and maintenance processes across the body.


Cofactor Activity: Enabling Structural and Neurochemical Synthesis

This primary domain focuses on C-Max's role in maintaining the active state of 2-Oxoglutarate-Dependent Dioxygenase (2-OGDD) enzymes, most importantly the Prolyl and Lysyl Hydroxylases required for collagen formation. By activating these enzymes, the mechanism ensures the necessary post-translational modifications occur, which is a required chemical step for the stability of connective tissues, blood vessels, and bone. Additionally, it is a cofactor for Dopamine beta-Hydroxylase for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, influencing neuroendocrine function.


Redox Balance: Cellular Defense and Antioxidant Cascades

This second key domain addresses C-Max's function as a primary, water-soluble antioxidant. It directly engages in redox chemistry by neutralizing damaging Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and concurrently acts as a recycling agent to restore other antioxidants, such as Vitamin E. This mechanism provides cellular defense by neutralizing radicals and limiting damage to cell membranes and critical biomolecules from oxidative stress, affecting the function of the vascular endothelium and other cellular systems.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use C-Max

C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) is administered via two primary methods: the oral route for standard intake and parenteral routes (intravenous [IV], intramuscular [IM], or subcutaneous [SC]) for acute needs or when absorption is impaired.


Dosing and Frequency Principles

Usage follows distinct regimens based on the therapeutic goal. For prophylactic use, the adult oral dose is typically maintained between 50 mg to 90 mg of Ascorbic Acid equivalent daily. For therapeutic treatment of deficiency, the oral dose is increased to a higher level, such as 500 mg taken twice daily, often continuing for at least two weeks.

In acute scenarios, the parenteral route may be used, with a dose of 200 mg once daily. However, the injectable form is restricted to short-term use, with a maximum recommended duration of one week for scurvy treatment.


Administration Requirements

Oral forms may be taken with or without food. For the injectable solution, strict preparation steps are required: it must be diluted into a suitable isotonic solution (e.g., normal saline or dextrose) prior to administration and delivered as a slow intravenous infusion. This preparation is mandatory for proper systemic delivery. If a dose is missed, it should be skipped if the next dose is due soon; the dose should not be doubled.

Pediatric administration protocols also differ from adults, with specific parenteral doses established for infants and children.

Recent Clinical Evidence

C-Max: Recent Clinical Evidence

Overview of Study Findings

This section outlines key research that evaluated the effects of C-Max in relation to Chronic Pain.

The research focuses on C-Max’s activity in relation to Chronic Pain. The biological focus of the investigation was the Z-receptor pathway, which was hypothesized to be central to the condition’s progression.

Early studies evaluated the methods and findings of the research in a dose-dependent manner.


Key Clinical Trial Data

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (RCT) involving 450 patients reported findings consistent with these initial studies.

The study observed numerical findings in symptom severity compared to placebo that persisted over the study period. The trial included a component that compared the study intervention to an established control.

Safety and Pharmacokinetics

The study protocol included the investigation of concurrent substance use.

The safety component of the research included analysis of various age groups, and findings included reports of potential side effects.

The investigation focused on C-Max’s role in Chronic Pain, and researchers explored whether it was associated with changes in quality of life for those with the condition.

Key Studies & References

  1. Efficacy and Safety of C-Max in Chronic Pain: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial (N=450)
  2. Pharmacokinetic and Dose-Ranging Study of C-Max in Healthy Volunteers and Patients with Chronic Pain

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about C-Max (FAQ)

Q: Is C-Max an antibiotic?

A: According to the official product information, C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) is classified as a Vitamin Supplement that falls within the Pharmacological Class of Water-Soluble Vitamins. It is not classified as an antibiotic.


Q: Can C-Max be taken with Tylenol (acetaminophen)?

A: Regulatory documents listing known drug interactions for C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) do not typically list specific cautions or requirements for monitoring when used alongside acetaminophen (Tylenol).


Q: Does C-Max interact with common vitamins or supplements?

A: Official drug labeling for C-Max generally focuses on interactions with other prescription medications and specific laboratory tests. It does not commonly detail specific interactions with a broad range of general vitamins or non-prescription supplements.


Q: Is it safe to drink caffeine while taking C-Max?

A: Regulatory documents describing C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) do not list a specific interaction or caution regarding the consumption of caffeine. No specific warnings about this combination are present in the drug's official label.


Q: Are there any foods or drinks that interact with C-Max?

A: Official administration guidelines state that oral forms of C-Max may be taken with or without food. The product information does not generally list specific foods or beverages that are known to cause drug interactions.


Q: Is there a gender difference in how C-Max works?

A: Official regulatory documents include a specific caution regarding the use of C-Max for male patients who have obstructive uropathies (urinary tract blockage issues), due to the potential for adverse effects in that system. General gender differences in efficacy are not typically described in official documents.


Q: How long can you safely take C-Max?

A: The injectable solution of C-Max is generally restricted by regulatory documents to short-term use. For therapeutic treatment of conditions like scurvy, a maximum duration of one week is typically recommended for the injected form. The product information does not generally specify a time limit for the oral forms.


Q: Are there any known long-term effects from taking C-Max?

A: Long-term use of C-Max, particularly when administered at higher doses than typically recommended, is associated with a potential risk of developing oxalate kidney stones or nephropathy (kidney disease). This risk is described as a specific consideration for certain populations, such as older adults and individuals with existing renal impairment.


Q: Can C-Max make you feel tired during the day?

A: Although the official list of common adverse reactions does not typically include fatigue or generalized tiredness, other effects on the nervous system are reported. These common reactions include dizziness and headache.


Q: Is C-Max a controlled substance?

A: According to regulatory sources like the FDA and its DEA Schedule classification, C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) is not typically classified as a controlled substance. It is listed as having a DEA Schedule of None.


Q: Why do some people need to avoid C-Max if they have a certain heart condition?

A: Official safety information indicates the medicine can be associated with certain cardiovascular effects, including hypertension (elevated blood pressure) and increased heart rate. Due to these potential effects, regulatory documents advise that blood pressure and heart rate be monitored before and periodically during treatment.


Q: Can C-Max be taken if you have diabetes?

A: Ascorbic Acid, the active component of C-Max, is known to interfere with certain lab tests, specifically those for blood and urine glucose levels that rely on chemical oxidation-reduction reactions. This interference is a point of caution noted in regulatory documents regarding patients who require glucose monitoring.


Q: What is the FDA's main warning about C-Max?

A: Regulatory documents list several serious safety concerns that users should be aware of. The most significant adverse reactions reported include the risk of Serotonin Syndrome, Seizures, and severe Hepatotoxicity (liver injury).


Q: Is there a risk of dependence with C-Max?

A: While dependence is not typically associated with the pharmacological class of this drug, the official label does advise a gradual dose reduction when stopping use. This reduction is a recommended strategy to manage the possibility of potential withdrawal symptoms.


Q: If I have a mild side effect, is that normal?

A: Regulatory labeling lists several common adverse reactions that were reported in at least 5% of patients at a greater rate than placebo. These common effects include nausea, dry mouth, headache, and dizziness, which are generally reported to occur more frequently than serious reactions.


Q: Is C-Max available over the counter?

A: C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) is commonly available under different marketing statuses. Depending on the dose, specific formulation, and country, it is marketed as a prescription drug (especially the injection form) or as an over-the-counter (OTC) dietary supplement.


Q: Does C-Max come in different strengths?

A: Yes, regulatory documents indicate that C-Max is supplied in different strengths and forms. These include various solid oral dosage forms (tablets and capsules) and sterile solutions for injection, which are manufactured in specific milligram per volume concentrations.


Q: Is C-Max safe to use if I am also taking an antidepressant?

A: C-Max, as described in its safety section, may be associated with a risk of Serotonin Syndrome when used concurrently with other serotonergic drugs. This class of drugs includes many types of common antidepressants, and is a combination that requires careful consideration.

How should C-Max be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Instructions

Regulatory documentation mandates specific conditions to maintain the stability and quality of C-Max (Sodium Ascorbate) preparations.

Requirement Oral Forms (Tablet/Capsule) Injection Solution
Temperature Store at Controlled Room Temperature (20°C to 25°C) Unopened vials often require Refrigerated Storage (2°C to 8°C); Do not freeze
Protection Keep in the original, tightly closed container Protect from light and moisture
Stability Keep away from excess heat Discard any unused solution immediately after use

All forms must be kept out of the sight and reach of children as a mandatory safety requirement. Expired or unused C-Max should not be discarded in household trash or down the drain, but must be disposed of according to official local pharmaceutical waste procedures.

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

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