High-Dose Vitamin C Infusion in Dublin: Benefits, Safety and the G6PD Test

A vitamin C infusion is the intravenous administration of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) at doses far higher than can be achieved by taking it orally. Delivered directly into the bloodstream, it bypasses the limits of intestinal absorption, so blood levels reach concentrations that tablets simply cannot.

At Dr. Torun's Clinic in Tallaght, Dublin 24, high-dose vitamin C infusions are carefully assessed and supervised by a doctor. Because higher doses carry specific safety considerations, the checks we carry out first are especially important. Here is what you need to know.

High-dose IV vitamin C delivers ascorbic acid in gram quantities — protocols range from a few grams up to 50–100 g in specialised settings — well beyond a normal dietary intake. It is used in both medical and wellness contexts.

Medically accepted or studied uses include:

• Severe vitamin C deficiency (scurvy)
• As an adjunct in cancer care
• As an adjunct in severe infections or sepsis, in some protocols
• Critical illness associated with oxidative stress
• Support for wound healing in deficiency states

It is also requested for wellness reasons such as immune "boosting", anti-ageing, fatigue and skin brightening. These wellness uses are popular but less firmly supported by evidence.

High-dose vitamin C can affect the kidneys and interfere with some lab readings, so safety testing is a priority. Core tests include:

• Renal (kidney) function tests — creatinine, urea and eGFR (very important)
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Electrolytes

A specific and important test is:

• G6PD deficiency test — essential to avoid the risk of haemolysis (red blood cell breakdown) in susceptible patients

Depending on your history, we may also check liver function tests and urinalysis. In higher-risk patients we consider iron studies (vitamin C increases iron absorption) and any history of kidney stones.

Medically relevant benefits include:

• Treatment of vitamin C deficiency (scurvy)
• Support for collagen synthesis, wound healing and skin integrity
• Antioxidant effects that reduce oxidative stress

Vitamin C infusions may also reduce the severity of some infections and are studied as a possible adjunct in cancer therapy — though never as a standalone treatment. Some people report improvements in fatigue or energy.

High-dose vitamin C is not suitable for everyone. Important risks include:

• Kidney stones (oxalate nephropathy)
• Haemolysis in G6PD deficiency — which is why we test for it first
• False lab results — vitamin C can interfere with glucose testing
• Electrolyte imbalance

It is contraindicated in G6PD deficiency and severe kidney impairment, and used only with caution in anyone with a history of recurrent calcium oxalate kidney stones.

• Patients with severe vitamin C deficiency (scurvy)
• Selected oncology patients receiving adjunctive supportive care
• Patients with severe infections or critical illness within specific treatment protocols
• Patients with deficiency-related impaired wound healing
• Selected patients with increased oxidative stress, after careful clinical assessment

Safety comes first with high-dose vitamin C. Before any vitamin C drip, we review your history, arrange the necessary bloods — including G6PD and kidney function — and confirm the dose is appropriate for you. You are monitored throughout by our medical team.

Interested in a vitamin C infusion done properly and safely? Book a consultation or see our full IV therapy services.

Frequently asked questions