Positive Health Online

Abstract

CARR and COLLEAGUES, Department of Pathology, University of Otago, Christchurch, PO Box 4345, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand. anitra.carr@otago.ac.nz report on the administration of i.v. vitamin C in a case of a woman with recurrent breast cancer, undergoing chemotherapy.

Background

Fatigue is a common, often debilitating, side effect of cancer chemotherapy.

Methodology

Pharmacologic vitamin C has been used as an alternative treatment for the disease itself but its effects on fatigue have not often been documented. Here we report on the case of a woman with recurrent breast cancer, undergoing weekly chemotherapy, with lethargy as a major symptom. Vitamin C (50 g/session) was administered twice weekly and quality of life and multidimensional fatigue symptomology questionnaires were undertaken.

Results

Dramatic decreases in fatigue and insomnia were observed, as well as increased cognitive functioning. There were no adverse side effects of i.v. vitamin C.

Conclusion

References

Carr AC(1), Vissers MC and Cook J. Relief from cancer chemotherapy side effects with pharmacologic vitamin C. N Z Med J. 127(1388): 66-70. Jan 24 2014.