Drug Type: Vitamin

Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)

Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is a water-soluble antioxidant compound, which protects cells against oxidative damage and improves immune system function. Vitamin C is believed to play a role in protein, lipid and carnitine synthesis, maintaining blood vessel integrity, and immune function. Vitamin C may also act as a co-antioxidant with other antioxidants by synergistic effects. There is a close relationship between Vitamin C with Vitamin E.

Adding supplemental vitamin C to the diet is beneficial for birds subjected to stress, including heat stress from exposure to hot weather. Vitamin C will help enhance their immune system and alleviate metabolic signs of stress.

Storage/Stability: Protect from air and light. Ascorbic acid will slowly darken upon light exposure. Slight discoloration does not affect potency.
  • 20-40 mg/kg given daily to weekly, orally or IM.
  • Laying hens under heat stress will need 200-500 mg/kg added to their diet per day.
  • Very large doses may result in diarrhea and potentially urolithiasis.