Vitamin c boosts radiation for sarcoma? early trial shows promise

NCT ID NCT03508726

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Mohammed Milhem Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether giving high-dose vitamin C (ascorbate) alongside radiation therapy before surgery is safe and effective for people with advanced soft tissue sarcoma. 25 participants received vitamin C infusions three times a week during radiation. The goal was to see if the combination could kill more tumor cells and improve outcomes. Results are still being analyzed.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: high-dose vitamin C (ascorbate) given intravenously
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a way to make radiation more effective for soft tissue sarcoma, potentially improving tumor shrinkage before surgery.
What could go wrong: This was a small, early-phase trial with only 25 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. High-dose vitamin C can cause side effects like kidney issues or electrolyte imbalances.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

sarcoma soft tissue sarcoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SOFT TISSUE SARCOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics

Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States

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