Ascorbic acid and glucose in the correction of free radical oxidation processes (experimental study. Part II)

June 20, 2016

Ascorbic acid is an organic compound that is an essential element of the human body. It can be found in the nutritional composition of certain vegetables and especially fruits. Another name for ascorbic acid is vitamin C.

Ascorbic acid brings undeniable benefits: it helps strengthen the immune defense, restore lost strength, and normalize metabolic processes. The compound can be in various forms. Often these are dragees with a sour yellow center. But there are also powders for preparing solutions, soluble tablets, special biological additives, and ampoules for injection. In our article we will look at the benefits and harms of ascorbic acid.

Indications for the use of ascorbic acid

Ascorbic acid has many benefits for people who have gas poisoning. In case of severe poisoning, vitamin C helps restore the natural internal environment in the body and normalize oxidative processes.

The recommended dosage of ascorbic acid for poisoning is no more than 0.25 ml per kilogram of a person’s weight. Another indication for prescribing ascorbic acid is seasonal deficiency of vitamins.

You can provide your body with vitamin C through pharmaceutical preparations or by eating natural fruits and vegetables. They should be present in the daily diet and in sufficient quantities. With the correct dosage, ascorbic acid will protect against colds. An increased dose of vitamin C is necessary for people who smoke.

Ascorbic acid has invaluable benefits: it restores the acidic environment. As prescribed by a doctor, this useful element is often prescribed to pregnant women. According to scientific research, during the period of bearing a child, a girl should drink about a third more vitamin C than before conception.

You can get recommendations from specialists on the use of certain medications and vitamins based on the results of a Check-up at the Anadolu Clinic.

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Ascorbic acid (table No. 10 with glucose), Ecotex

A country

Russia
The country of production may vary depending on the batch of goods. Please check with the operator for detailed information when confirming your order.

Active substance

Ascorbic acid + Dextrose

Compound

1 tablet contains: ascorbic acid 100 mg, dextrose (glucose) monohydrate 877 mg.
Excipients: calcium stearate - 10 mg, talc - 13 mg. The tablets are white, flat-cylindrical in shape, round, with a chamfer and a score.

pharmachologic effect

Vitamin C. Ascorbic acid is necessary for the formation of intracellular collagen and is required to strengthen the structure of teeth, bones and capillary walls. Participates in redox reactions, tyrosine metabolism, conversion of folic acid into folinic acid, carbohydrate metabolism, lipid and protein synthesis, iron metabolism, cellular respiration processes, activates the synthesis of steroid hormones. Reduces the need for vitamins B1, B2, A, E, folic acid, pantothenic acid, helps increase the body's resistance to infections; improves iron absorption, promoting its deposition in a reduced form. Has antioxidant properties. When used intravaginally, ascorbic acid reduces the pH of the vagina, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and helps restore and maintain normal pH and vaginal flora (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus gasseri).

Indications for use

For systemic use: prevention and treatment of hypo- and vitamin C deficiency; ensuring the body's increased need for vitamin C during growth, pregnancy, lactation, heavy loads, overwork, and during convalescence after long-term serious illnesses; in winter, with an increased risk of developing infectious diseases. For intravaginal use: chronic or recurrent vaginitis (bacterial vaginosis, nonspecific vaginitis) caused by anaerobic flora (due to altered vaginal pH); in order to normalize the disturbed vaginal microflora.

Mode of application

Ascorbic acid with glucose is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases in weakened patients. The prophylactic dose for an adult is 0.5-1 tablets/day, the therapeutic dose is from 1.5 to 5 tablets/day. For children over 5-6 years old, the prophylactic dose is 0.5 tablets/day. therapeutic - 1-3 tablets/day. Glucose with ascorbic acid is prescribed intravenously to prevent secondary infection, pulmonary edema, renal hepatic failure and a number of other pathologies. The benefits of this remedy are also enormous for pregnant women who suffer from severe toxicosis and need additional support for the body. In each specific case, the dose is selected individually. Reviews indicate that many people (especially people on a diet) use ascorbic acid tablets with glucose instead of prohibited sweets, believing that they are less harmful. The calorie content of glucose is 340 kcal, and one tablet contains 877 mg. That is, 1 tablet is approximately 30 kcal. However, using the drug instead of sweets and regularly exceeding the daily requirement of vitamin C is fraught with serious stomach problems.

Interaction

When used simultaneously with barbiturates and primidone, the excretion of ascorbic acid in the urine increases. With simultaneous use of oral contraceptives, the concentration of ascorbic acid in the blood plasma decreases. When used simultaneously with iron supplements, ascorbic acid, due to its restorative properties, converts ferric iron into divalent iron, which helps improve its absorption. Ascorbic acid in high doses can reduce urine pH, which, when used simultaneously, reduces the tubular reabsorption of amphetamine and tricyclic antidepressants. When used simultaneously, acetylsalicylic acid reduces the absorption of ascorbic acid by about a third. When used simultaneously with warfarin, the effects of warfarin may be reduced. When used concomitantly, ascorbic acid increases iron excretion in patients receiving deferoxamine. When using ascorbic acid at a dose of 500 mg/day, left ventricular dysfunction may occur. When used simultaneously with tetracycline, the excretion of ascorbic acid in the urine increases. A case of a decrease in the concentration of fluphenazine in the blood plasma in a patient receiving ascorbic acid 500 mg 2 times a day is described. It is possible to increase the concentration of ethinyl estradiol in the blood plasma when used simultaneously as part of oral contraceptives.

Side effect

From the side of the central nervous system: headache, feeling of fatigue, insomnia. From the digestive system: stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. Allergic reactions: isolated cases of skin reactions and manifestations from the respiratory system have been described. From the urinary system: when used in high doses - hyperoxaluria and the formation of kidney stones from calcium oxalate. Local reactions: with intravaginal use - burning or itching in the vagina, increased mucous discharge, hyperemia, swelling of the vulva. Other: feeling of heat.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to ascorbic acid.
Use during pregnancy and lactation The minimum daily requirement for ascorbic acid in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is about 60 mg. Ascorbic acid penetrates the placental barrier. It should be borne in mind that the fetus can adapt to high doses of ascorbic acid taken by a pregnant woman, and then the newborn may develop ascorbic acid syndrome as a withdrawal reaction. Therefore, during pregnancy you should not take ascorbic acid in high doses, unless the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk. The minimum daily requirement during lactation (breastfeeding) is 80 mg. Ascorbic acid is excreted in breast milk. A maternal diet containing adequate amounts of ascorbic acid is sufficient to prevent deficiency in the infant. It is not known whether maternal use of ascorbic acid in high doses is dangerous for the child. Theoretically this is possible. Therefore, it is recommended that a nursing mother not exceed the maximum daily requirement for ascorbic acid, unless the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk.

Overdose

An overdose of Ascorbic acid develops with prolonged use of doses exceeding 1 gram per day. Its signs are: - headache; - nausea; - insomnia; - increased excitability of the central nervous system; - ulceration of the mucous membrane of the digestive canal; - vomit; - diarrhea; — inhibition of the functional activity of the pancreas insular apparatus; - nephrolithiasis; - oxalosis; - hyperacid gastritis; - moderate pollakiuria; - damage to the glomerular (glomerular) apparatus of the kidneys; - decreased permeability of capillary walls. In some cases, blood pressure and blood clotting increase, tissue trophism worsens, and microangiopathies develop. Intravenous administration of high doses of vitamin C can provoke erythrocytolysis and abortion. The lethal dose of vitamin C is 20-30 grams.

special instructions

Use with caution in patients with hyperoxaluria, impaired renal function, or a history of urolithiasis. Because ascorbic acid increases iron absorption, its use in high doses may be dangerous in patients with hemochromatosis, thalassemia, polycythemia, leukemia and sideroblastic anemia. In patients with high iron levels in the body, ascorbic acid should be used in minimal doses. Use with caution in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. The use of ascorbic acid in high doses can cause an exacerbation of sickle cell anemia. Data on the diabetogenic effect of ascorbic acid are contradictory. However, with long-term use of ascorbic acid, blood glucose levels should be periodically monitored. It is believed that the use of ascorbic acid in patients with rapidly proliferating and widely disseminated tumors may aggravate the process. Therefore, ascorbic acid should be used with caution in patients with advanced cancer. The absorption of ascorbic acid decreases with the simultaneous consumption of fresh fruit or vegetable juices and alkaline drinks.

Ascorbic acid: benefits

Ascorbic acid is beneficial for the following negative manifestations:

• insomnia, poor sleep with nightmares;
• bleeding gums and loose teeth;
• pain in the lower extremities;
• prolonged wound healing;
• pale skin;
• general weakness and weakness
• frequent colds;
• low-grade fever.

Ascorbic acid is useful in the body's fight against various infections and viruses. It helps with inflamed lymph nodes, strengthens the walls of blood vessels, helps cleanse the blood and eliminate free radicals.

Vitamin C helps the body fight dermatological and allergic problems, improves skin condition, promotes its rejuvenation, hair becomes more well-groomed, and glands produce hormones like a clockwork mechanism. Acid improves the absorption of iron, blood clotting, and also normalizes metabolism, promoting the formation of lipids, proteins and the breakdown of fats.

Where does glucose come from?

Blood glucose reserves appear not only from food consumed.

If glucose levels begin to fall, the body will launch mechanisms to break down strategic reserves. Certain enzymes remove glucose molecules from the glycogen chain (stored in the liver) and send them into the bloodstream. Thanks to this process, normal glucose levels are maintained in the body.

It is important to know that after hypoglycemia, sharp jumps in plasma glucose levels often occur, which are very difficult to deal with.

The body also extracts glucose from fat reserves, but this process is lengthy. This method is used during heavy exercise or prolonged fasting.

Ascorbic acid brings not only benefits, but also harm

A high-quality medication containing ascorbic acid is considered safe for health. However, it should be used in moderation; an overdose is fraught with side effects.

People who have ulcers, gastritis or other stomach problems need to be especially careful. In large quantities, vitamin C causes diarrhea, stomach and bladder upset, abdominal pain, and sometimes even cramps.

Also, long-term and excessive use of this element is fraught with the formation of kidney stones, if there is a predisposition. Like other drugs, ascorbic acid can cause allergic reactions. In this case, you should stop taking it and consult a doctor.

Whether ascorbic acid will bring benefit or harm depends on the correct use of it and the individual characteristics of the body.

pharmachologic effect

Glucose (dextrose) belongs to the category of monosaccharides. The substance is found in the juice of various berries (in particular grapes), which is why it is sometimes called grape sugar.

Oligosaccharides and disaccharides consist of glucose units.

Once in the digestive system, complex saccharides break down into fructose and glucose.

Glucose, as a monosaccharide, is found in:

• Lymph
• Blood
• Myocardium
• Skeletal muscles

Glucose is a participant in carbohydrate metabolism and affects metabolism.

Dextrose is necessary for carbohydrate nutrition of muscles and brain; the substance is well and quickly absorbed and helps improve human performance.

Why is Glucose useful?

Glucose is widely used for the treatment of various pathologies, as it has a good effect on metabolic processes.

Pregnant women are prescribed glucose:

• If you suspect that the intrauterine fetus is smaller than the required size
• To reduce the chance of miscarriage
• To prevent premature birth

After consuming glucose, you feel better and fatigue goes away.

During pregnancy and lactation, it is necessary to constantly monitor plasma sugar levels.

Glucose in ampoules, can I drink it?

Glucose can be taken orally, as its regular solution does not contain substances that can be harmful. The medicinal liquid tastes quite pleasant, reminiscent of ordinary sweet water.

You can drink glucose in ampoules if there is a sharp decrease in blood pressure or if a diabetic has exceeded the dosage of insulin. However, for these problems, it is wiser to drink strong, sweet tea.

In case of poisoning, glucose is often prescribed, but its oral use during intoxication can provoke additional vomiting.

Mode of application

Children over three years of age and adults can take the classic form of the drug, 0.5-1 tablets three times a day. If the doctor considers it necessary to prescribe a combined form of the drug (with ascorbic acid), the dosage must be recalculated, taking into account the content of vitamin C in the tablet. Typically, the dose for treatment varies from 50 to 100 mg per day 3-5 times a day.

For preventive purposes, adult patients are allowed to take up to 100 mg of the drug per day. Children 6-14 years old should not take more than 50 mg of the drug per day.

It is important to understand that the dosage and duration of therapy must be adjusted by the attending physician.

Contraindications to the use of Glucose

Glucose solution is contraindicated in patients who suffer from:

• hyperglycemia
• decompensated diabetes mellitus
• hyperosmolar coma
• impaired glucose utilization in the postoperative period
• hyperlactic acidemia

Intravenous administration of Glucose is carried out with caution when:

• chronic renal or heart failure
• hyponatremia
• Glucose tablets are contraindicated for:
• diabetes mellitus
• overhydration
• cerebral edema
• pulmonary edema
• circulatory diseases in which there is a high risk of pulmonary or cerebral edema
• acute left ventricular failure

Benefits and harms

The main functions of glucose are nutritional and energy. Thanks to them, it maintains heartbeat, breathing, muscle contraction, brain function, nervous system and regulates body temperature.

The value of glucose in the human body:

1. Participates in metabolic processes and is the most digestible energy resource.
2. Supports the body's performance.
3. Nourishes brain cells, improves memory and learning.
4. Stimulates the heart.
5. Quickly quenches the feeling of hunger.
6. Relieves stress, corrects mental state.
7. Accelerates the recovery of muscle tissue.
8. Helps the liver in neutralizing toxic substances.

Glucose has been used for many years to relieve intoxication in the body during hypoglycemia. The monosaccharide is part of blood substitutes, anti-shock drugs used to treat diseases of the liver and central nervous system. Many drugs are injected into a vein using glucose, including novocaine and potassium chloride, which are often used in medical practice.

In addition to its positive effects, glucose can harm the body of people in old age, patients with impaired metabolism and lead to the following consequences:

• obesity;
• development of thrombophlebitis;
• overload of the pancreas;
• the occurrence of allergic reactions;
• increased cholesterol;
• the appearance of inflammatory, heart diseases, coronary circulation disorders;
• arterial hypertension;
• damage to the retina of the eye;
• diabetes mellitus;
• endothelial dysfunction.

Remember, the amount of monosaccharide ingested into the body must be fully compensated by the expenditure of calories for energy needs.

Daily norm

To nourish brain cells, red blood cells, striated muscles and provide the body with energy, a person needs to eat “his” individual norm. To calculate it, multiply your actual body weight by a factor of 2.6. The resulting value is your body’s daily requirement for the monosaccharide.

At the same time, for knowledge workers (office employees) performing computational and planning operations, athletes and people experiencing heavy physical activity, the daily norm should be increased, since these operations require more energy.

The need for glucose decreases with a sedentary lifestyle, a tendency to diabetes, and excess weight. In this case, the body will use fat reserves rather than easily digestible saccharide to produce energy.

Remember, glucose in moderate doses is a medicine and “fuel” for internal organs and systems. Excessive consumption of sweets turns it into poison, turning its beneficial properties into harm.