Vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid and ascorbate) is a vitamin found in various foods and sold as a dietary supplement. It is used to prevent and treat scurvy. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient involved in the repair of tissue and the enzymatic production of certain neurotransmitters
It is required for the functioning of several enzymes and is important for immune system function.It also functions as an antioxidant. Most animals and plants are able to synthesize their own vitamin C, however, humans and other apes, most bats, some rodents and certain other animals cannot and must acquire it from dietary sources.
Vitamin C has a definitive role in treating scurvy, which is a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. Beyond that, a role for vitamin C as prevention or treatment for various diseasesThe oxidative stress from ARDS generates free radicals and cytokines, leading to cellular malfunction, damage, and organ failure. On this front, use of antioxidative agents in the management of this pathophysiology is gaining popularity. One such modality is intravenous high-dose vitamin C.