The effect of vitamin C intake on plasma oxalate in patients on regular haemodialysis

Plasma oxalate was measured on two occasions in 18 patients with end-stage renal failure on regular haemodialysis treatment: once while on a routine dose of vitamin C (100 mg/day) and subsequently after 2 weeks administration of a larger dose of vitamin C (500 mg/day). Pre- and post-dialysis concentrations were all markedly increased, reflecting the reduced glomerular filtration rate of end-stage renal failure. Both pre- and post-dialysis oxalate increased significantly following the increase in ascorbate dose but there was no significant correlation between plasma oxalate and ascorbate results. Considerations governing dosage of vitamin C in patients with chronic renal failure are discussed.