Vitamin C

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Feb 17, 2025

Drug Details


Generic Name:

L-ascorbic acid

Common Brands:

None

Availability:

Over-the-counter

Therapeutic Class:

Dietary supplement

Forms:

Tablets, chewable tablets, gummies, liquid solution

Administration:

By mouth

Therapeutic Uses:

To prevent and treat vitamin C deficiency

Controlled Status:

Not a controlled substance


Vitamin C Drug Class

Vitamin C (vit-uh-min C) is a water-soluble vitamin. It is an essential nutrient that plays an important role in many processes in the body. We need vitamin C for growth and development, collagen synthesis (collagen is a protein found in skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels), wound healing, scar tissue formation, repair of bones and teeth, protection against infections such as the common cold, and iron absorption. 

The body does not synthesize vitamin C, so it must be obtained from vitamin C-containing foods or supplements. Most people get enough vitamin C by eating a healthy, balanced diet that includes vitamin C-rich foods. 

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin and is not stored in the body. The body eliminates extra vitamin C in urine. Therefore, you need regular intake of vitamin C from dietary sources and/or vitamin C supplements to prevent a shortage of this vitamin in the body.

Vitamin C Age Range

Vitamin C is approved for use in adults and children.