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Inflammopharmacology
Published in: Inflammopharmacology 6/2023

18-04-2023 | COVID-19 | Short Communication

The effect of vitamin C on the risk of mortality in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Authors: Chia Siang Kow, Syed Shahzad Hasan, Dinesh Sangarran Ramachandram

Published in: Inflammopharmacology | Issue 6/2023

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Abstract

Background and Aims

Vitamin C appears to be a viable treatment option for patients with COVID-19.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of vitamin C versus comparative interventions in patients with COVID-19. The outcome of interest was all-cause mortality.

Results

The meta-analysis of eleven trials using a random-effects model revealed significant reduction in the risk of all-cause mortality with the administration of vitamin C among patients with COVID-19 relative to no vitamin C (pooled odds ratio = 0.53; 95% confidence interval 0.30–0.92). Subgroup analysis of studies that included patients with severe COVID-19 also produced findings of significant mortality reduction with the administration of vitamin C relative to no vitamin C (pooled odds ratio = 0.47; 95% confidence interval 0.26–0.84).

Conclusion

Overall, evidence from RCTs suggests a survival benefit for vitamin C in patients with severe COVID-19. However, we should await data from large-scale randomized trials to affirm its mortality benefits.
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Metadata
Title
The effect of vitamin C on the risk of mortality in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors
Chia Siang Kow
Syed Shahzad Hasan
Dinesh Sangarran Ramachandram
Publication date
18-04-2023
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Keyword
COVID-19
Published in
Inflammopharmacology / Issue 6/2023
Print ISSN: 0925-4692
Electronic ISSN: 1568-5608
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10787-023-01200-5

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