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Evidence-Based Supplement Research
Evidence-Based Supplement Research
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Surprising

Vitamin C matched a steroid for post-surgery pain relief in 107 hip-replacement patients — but unlike dexamethasone, it didn't spike blood sugar.

This single randomized trial suggests vitamin C could be a useful option for managing postoperative pain without the metabolic side effects of steroids, but the result is from a small clinical population undergoing major surgery, so it doesn't tell us whether vitamin C works for everyday pain in healthy people.

In a randomized trial of 107 people recovering from total hip replacement, those given vitamin C reported significantly less pain on day one after surgery compared to a control group — and the effect was similar to the steroid dexamethasone. However, the vitamin C group avoided the blood glucose spikes the steroid caused, though nausea and vomiting still occurred. This is one of seven studies on vitamin C for pain, most of which found a benefit, but the doses used in these studies varied widely, so there's no single recommended amount yet.

Where this fits in the evidence

Pillser has synthesized 8 studies on Vitamin C for Reduced Pain — overall evidence strength: Moderate.

Across 8 studies, 6 reported beneficial effects of vitamin C on reducing pain, with effect sizes ranging from small to moderate. The median study duration was 60 days across the 3 studies reporting duration, suggesting effects may require several weeks of supplementation. The evidence is strongest for postoperative pain (e.g., dental surgery and hip arthroplasty), with some studies also showing benefit in fibromyalgia and carpal tunnel syndrome.

The study

Efficacy of Vitamin C as Glucocorticoid Substitute for Reducing Pain and Inflammation After Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

  • Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
  • n = 107
  • 2025-04-10
  • The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume
More on Vitamin CMore on Reduced Pain

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.

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