Myth-buster
In 262 children with septic shock, IV vitamin C showed no significant mortality benefit — 21.6% died on the vitamin versus 22.5% on placebo.
This careful, double-blind trial contradicts the hopeful hypothesis that high-dose vitamin C could save lives in pediatric septic shock — but as one of the first studies on this specific use, it's a strong counterpoint, not a final verdict.
Researchers gave 262 children in septic shock either intravenous vitamin C (25 mg per kilogram every 6 hours for 72 hours) or a placebo. The 28-day death rate was essentially identical between groups — 21.6% with vitamin C versus 22.5% with placebo, a statistically meaningless difference. The same study also found no improvement in organ recovery or shock reversal, and noted acute kidney injury as a possible side effect, suggesting the treatment offers no net benefit in this setting.
Where this fits in the evidence
This is among the first studies we've indexed on Vitamin C for Reduced Mortality Rate — treat it as an early signal until more research accumulates.
The study
Vitamin C Versus Placebo in Pediatric Septic Shock (VITACiPS) - A Randomised Controlled Trial.
- Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
- n = 262
- 2025-07-24
- Journal of intensive care medicine
This is a plain-language summary of a research finding, not medical advice. Pillser surfaces research signals to help you decide what's worth investigating — always consult a qualified professional before changing what you take.