The Science Behind High-Dose IV Vitamin C and Cancer Cell Sensitivity in Dunedin

The Science Behind High-Dose IV Vitamin C and Cancer Cell Sensitivity

Exploring the Cellular Mechanisms and Clinical Evidence in Dunedin

At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, we offer evidence-based high-dose IV Vitamin C cancer sensitivity support in Dunedin for patients seeking integrative care alongside standard oncology treatment.

High-dose IV Vitamin C is gaining scientific recognition for its role in cancer cell sensitivity and integrative oncology support.

What Is High-Dose IV Vitamin C?

At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, we offer personalised IV Vitamin C cancer support in Dunedin, grounded in current clinical research and mechanistic understanding. High-dose intravenous vitamin C (IVC) is different from oral supplementation. At pharmacological doses, it acts not just as an antioxidant—but as a pro-oxidant in tumour environments.

This article explores how that works, what the evidence says, and why it may matter for people undergoing cancer treatment.

How High-Dose IV Vitamin C Affects Cancer Cell Sensitivity in Dunedin

Unlike oral vitamin C, intravenous administration reaches plasma concentrations high enough to generate hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in the tumour microenvironment. Cancer cells—due to lower levels of catalase—struggle to detoxify this oxidative stress, making them more vulnerable than healthy cells.

Key Mechanisms Behind the Effects

• Pro-oxidant effect: Creates reactive oxygen species that target cancer cells

• Epigenetic activity: Activates TET enzymes, promoting DNA demethylation (Zhao et al., 2018)

• Cancer stem cell sensitivity: May disrupt ATP generation in tumour-initiating cells (Satheesh et al., 2020)

These pathways are what distinguish IV Vitamin C from general supplementation.

Clinical Studies at a Glance

• Ma et al. (2014): Enhanced chemo sensitivity in ovarian cancer, fewer side effects

• Zhao et al. (2018): Prolonged survival in acute myeloid leukemia patients

• Carr et al. (2014): Better energy and wellbeing during active treatment

These are just a few of many growing trials supporting its integrative use.

Who Might Benefit?

Patients in Dunedin exploring high-dose IV Vitamin C for cancer sensitivity often seek support for:

• Reducing fatigue and oxidative stress

• Enhancing chemo or radiation outcomes

• Targeting inflammation and immune dysfunction

• Improving energy and quality of life

Eligibility and Clinical Screening

IV Vitamin C is a prescription-only treatment. Every protocol is tailored based on:

• Cancer type and stage

• Kidney and liver function

• G6PD enzyme level

• Medication and supplement history

You must inform us of any changes to your health, prescriptions, or natural therapies. Treatment may be paused or declined if not clinically appropriate.

Ready to Learn More?

If you're considering IV Vitamin C as part of your cancer care plan, we encourage early contact. Appointments are limited due to clinical screening and infusion time.

Contact Dr Lee

📧 Email: drlee@dunedinmedical.co.nz

🌐 Website: www.dunedinmedical.co.nz

References – High-Dose IV Vitamin C and Cancer

1. Chen Q et al. (2005). Pharmacologic ascorbic acid concentrations selectively kill cancer cells.🔗 PMID: 16157892

2. Ma Y et al. (2014). High-dose parenteral ascorbate enhanced chemosensitivity of ovarian cancer.🔗 PMID: 24463248

3. Zhao H et al. (2018). Vitamin C with decitabine improves survival in AML.🔗 PMID: 29275122

4. Carr AC et al. (2014). Intravenous vitamin C and quality of life in cancer patients.🔗 PMID: 25399891

5. Satheesh NJ et al. (2020). Combination therapy with vitamin C targets cancer stem cells.🔗 PMID: 31936337

6. Shenoy N et al. (2018). Ascorbic acid’s anti-cancer mechanisms and pharmacokinetics.🔗 PMID: 30146367

7. Nauman G et al. (2018). Systematic review of intravenous ascorbate in cancer clinical trials.🔗 PMID: 29949839

8. Mikirova N et al. (2013). Intravenous ascorbic acid protocol for cancer patients.🔗 PMID: 28462280