The effect of perioperative vitamin c on postoperative analgesic consumption: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Kuo Chuan Hung, Yao Tsung Lin, Kee Hsin Chen, Li Kai Wang, Jen Yin Chen, Ying Jen Chang, Shao Chun Wu, Min Hsien Chiang, Cheuk Kwan Sun

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

16 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Because the analgesic effect of vitamin C against acute pain remains poorly addressed, this meta-analysis aimed at investigating its effectiveness against acute postoperative pain. A total of seven randomized controlled trials with placebo/normal controls were identified from PubMed, Cochrane Library, Medline, Google Scholar, and Embase databases. Pooled analysis showed a lower pain score (standardized mean difference (SMD) = −0.68, 95% CI: −1.01 to −0.36, p < 0.0001; I2 = 57%) and a lower morphine consumption (weighted mean difference (WMD) = −2.44 mg, 95% CI: −4.03 to −0.86, p = 0.003; I2 = 52%) in the vitamin group than that in the placebo group within postoperative 1–2 h. At postoperative 24 h, a lower pain score (SMD = −0.65, 95% CI: −1.11 to −0.19, p = 0.005; I2 = 81%) and lower morphine consumption (WMD = −6.74 mg, 95% CI: −9.63 to −3.84, p < 0.00001; I2 = 85%) were also noted in the vitamin group. Subgroup analyses demonstrated significant reductions in pain severity and morphine requirement immediately (1–2 h) and 24 h after surgery for patients receiving intravenous vitamin C but not in the oral subgroup. These findings showed significant reductions in pain score and opioid requirement up to postoperative 24 h, respectively, suggesting the effectiveness of perioperative vitamin C use. Further large-scale trials are warranted to elucidate its optimal intravenous dosage and effectiveness against chronic pain in the postoperative pain control setting.

Original languageEnglish
Article number3109
Pages (from-to)1-17
Number of pages17
JournalNutrients
Volume12
Issue number10
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2020

Keywords

  • Analgesic requirement
  • Anesthesia
  • Surgery
  • Vitamin C

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Food Science
  • Nutrition and Dietetics

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