Even a modest shortfall in vitamin C can leave the immune system less resilient, showing up as more frequent colds, flus, or lingering infections that are slow to clear. Vitamin C concentrates to very high levels inside neutrophils, where it helps fuel their oxidative burst, regulate antioxidant enzymes, and support normal cell survival, so low vitamin C can mean these “first‑responder” white blood cells do not work at full strength. Clinical trials are mixed but intriguing: in a substantial subset of studies, vitamin C supplementation improved neutrophil functions such as oxidative burst, antioxidant enzyme activity, and even reduced premature neutrophil cell death in very sick patients, suggesting that correcting low vitamin C may help the body respond more effectively when infections strike. This medication is commonly used for Pain Management.
Van Straten M, Josling P. Preventing the common cold with a vitamin C supplement: a double-blind, placebo-controlled survey. Adv Ther. 2002 May-Jun;19(3):151-9. Carr AC, Maggini S. Vitamin C and Immune Function. Nutrients. 2017 Nov 3;9(11):1211. Moore A, Khanna D. The Role of Vitamin C in Human Immunity and Its Treatment Potential Against COVID-19: A Review Article. Cureus. 2023 Jan 13;15(1):e33740. Bhoot HR, Zamwar UM, Chakole S, Anjankar A. Dietary Sources, Bioavailability, and Functions of Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) and Its Role in the Common Cold, Tissue Healing, and Iron Metabolism. Cureus. 2023 Nov 23;15(11):e49308. Liugan M, Carr AC. Vitamin C and Neutrophil Function: Findings from Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients. 2019 Sep 4;11(9):2102.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Indomethacin, a medication commonly used to treat inflammation and pain, can decrease the absorption of vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a vital role in immune function and the body's antioxidant defenses. To counteract this effect and maintain a healthy immune system and antioxidant capacity, vitamin C supplementation is recommended for individuals taking Indomethacin.
Studies suggest that indomethacin, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), might decrease calcium levels in the body. To prevent potential calcium deficiency, supplementation should be considered for individuals taking indomethacin on a long-term basis.