Vitamin c may boost pain tolerance, small study suggests

NCT ID NCT06971315

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

Summary

This completed trial tested whether high-dose vitamin C can raise how much pressure people can detect or tolerate before feeling pain. Thirty-eight healthy adults took either vitamin C or a placebo over 24 hours. Researchers measured pain thresholds using a device that applies pressure. The goal is to find a safe, non-drug option for acute pain relief.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Vitamin C (dietary supplement)

What this could lead to

If vitamin C proves effective, it could offer a simple, low-cost option for managing acute pain without opioids or NSAIDs.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial in healthy volunteers, not people in pain. Results may not apply to real-world acute pain, and high doses may cause side effects like stomach upset.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Acute Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal

    Montreal, Quebec, H4J 1C5, Canada