Ascorbic Acid
Also known as: Vitamin C, Ascor L 500
> **Key Point**: Most dogs and cats naturally produce their own Vitamin C and do not require supplements unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. * **Guinea pigs** cannot make their own Vitamin C and must receive daily supplementation through a fortified diet or specific Vitamin C drops. * Store Vitamin C supplements in a cool, dark place, as the vitamin degrades quickly when exposed to light and air. * If your pet is prescribed high doses, monitor their stool; contact your veterinarian if diarrhea occurs.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea) with high oral doses
- Pain or tissue irritation at the injection site (IM or SC)
- Increased risk of calcium oxalate urolithiasis with chronic high-dose administration
- Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea) at high oral doses
- Pain at injection site (IM/SC)
- Potential to acidify urine, which may increase the risk of oxalate or urate urolithiasis
Cautions & contraindications
- Patients with a history of urate or calcium oxalate urolithiasis
- Use with caution in patients with iron storage diseases (e.g., hemochromatosis)
- Patients with a history of calcium oxalate or urate urolithiasis (due to urine acidification)
- Use with extreme caution in animals prone to **calcium oxalate urolithiasis**, as ascorbic acid is partially metabolized to oxalate and excreted in the urine. Intravenous administration should be performed slowly to avoid adverse cardiovascular events. Injectable solutions should be protected from light.
Drug interactions
- Deferoxamine: Concurrent use may exacerbate tissue iron toxicity, particularly in the heart.
- Urine acidifying agents: May have additive acidifying effects, potentially increasing the risk of crystalluria.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ascorbic Acid used for in pets?
> **Key Point**: Most dogs and cats naturally produce their own Vitamin C and do not require supplements unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. * **Guinea pigs** cannot make their own Vitamin C and must receive daily supplementation through a fortified diet or specific Vitamin C drops. * Store Vitamin C supplements in a cool, dark place, as the vitamin degrades quickly when exposed to light and air. * If your pet is prescribed high doses, monitor their stool; contact your veterinarian if diarrhea occurs.
Is Ascorbic Acid safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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