8144 E. Cactus Rd, Ste 820, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 214-3922 staff@drstallone.com

High-Dose IV Vitamin C Therapy

Pharmacologic intravenous vitamin C to support immune function and enhance healing during cancer treatment.

What is High-Dose IV Vitamin C?

High-dose intravenous (IV) vitamin C therapy delivers pharmacologic concentrations of vitamin C directly into your bloodstream - levels that cannot be achieved through oral supplementation. At these elevated doses, vitamin C acts differently than dietary vitamin C and has been shown to support cancer patients in multiple ways.

Unlike oral vitamin C, which is limited by intestinal absorption (typically maxing out at 200-500mg at a time), IV vitamin C bypasses the digestive system entirely. This allows us to achieve blood levels 100-500 times higher than oral supplementation, unlocking unique therapeutic properties that support the body during cancer treatment.

How IV Vitamin C Supports Cancer Patients

Research from institutions including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and major cancer centers has identified several mechanisms by which high-dose IV vitamin C may benefit cancer patients:

Immune Enhancement

Vitamin C is essential for optimal immune function. High-dose IV vitamin C supports white blood cell production and activity, helping your immune system better recognize and respond to cancer cells.

Pro-Oxidant Effect

At pharmacologic doses, vitamin C generates hydrogen peroxide in tissues - selectively toxic to cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed due to their protective enzyme systems.

Quality of Life

Clinical studies show IV vitamin C can reduce fatigue, pain, nausea, and appetite loss in cancer patients, while improving overall well-being during conventional treatment.

Chemo Support

IV vitamin C may reduce the severity of chemotherapy side effects while potentially enhancing the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy agents.

Benefits of IV Vitamin C for Cancer Patients

  • Reduced Fatigue: Many patients report significant improvements in energy levels
  • Better Tolerance of Chemo/Radiation: May reduce severity of treatment side effects
  • Enhanced Immune Function: Supports your body's natural defenses
  • Improved Appetite: Helps maintain nutritional status during treatment
  • Reduced Pain: Anti-inflammatory effects may decrease cancer-related pain
  • Better Sleep: Patients often report improved sleep quality
  • Cognitive Clarity: May help reduce "chemo brain" symptoms
  • Wound Healing: Supports tissue repair after surgery

What to Expect During Treatment

Initial Consultation

Before beginning IV vitamin C therapy, you'll have a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Stallone to review your medical history, current treatments, and goals. We'll also order necessary lab work, including a G6PD enzyme test (a genetic screening required before high-dose vitamin C treatment).

The Treatment Session
  • Duration: Each infusion typically takes 1.5-3 hours depending on the dose
  • Comfort: You'll relax in a comfortable reclining chair in our IV suite
  • Activities: Feel free to read, work on a laptop, or rest during treatment
  • Hydration: We recommend eating a light meal and staying well-hydrated before your appointment
Treatment Protocol

Dosing is individualized based on your specific situation and goals. Most cancer patients receive treatments 1-3 times per week during active treatment. We start with lower doses and gradually increase to reach therapeutic levels, monitoring your response throughout.

Research & Safety

High-dose IV vitamin C has been studied extensively at major research institutions including:

  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • University of Kansas Medical Center
  • Jefferson University
  • Multiple international cancer research centers

When administered by trained physicians with proper screening and monitoring, IV vitamin C is generally well-tolerated. We follow established protocols and work closely with your oncology team to ensure safe, coordinated care.

Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, yes. However, timing is important. We typically schedule IV vitamin C on days when you're not receiving chemotherapy. We always coordinate with your oncologist to ensure safe timing and avoid any potential interactions with your specific chemotherapy regimen.

G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase) deficiency is a genetic condition that affects how red blood cells handle oxidative stress. People with G6PD deficiency cannot safely receive high-dose vitamin C, as it could cause hemolysis (red blood cell destruction). This simple blood test is performed before starting treatment to ensure your safety.

Most patients tolerate IV vitamin C very well. Some may experience mild thirst or need to urinate more frequently during treatment. Rarely, some patients may feel slight nausea or lightheadedness, which typically resolves quickly. Serious side effects are uncommon when proper screening and protocols are followed.

Many patients report feeling more energized within the first few treatments. Improvements in quality of life, sleep, and appetite often become noticeable within 2-4 weeks of regular treatment. The full benefits typically accumulate over time with consistent therapy.
Cancer Care Therapies
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Learn if IV vitamin C is right for you.

(480) 214-3922 New Patients

Ready to Support Your Cancer Journey with IV Vitamin C?

Schedule a consultation to learn how high-dose IV vitamin C therapy can complement your cancer treatment and improve your quality of life.

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