Vitamin C Supplementation Improves Lung Function in Infants of Pregnant Smokers

Vitamin C supplementation was associated with improved lung function at birth and reduced risk for wheezing at 1 year.

Smoking during pregnancy adversely affects lung development in infants. In a U.S. multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial, investigators examined whether vitamin C supplementation (500 mg/day) in pregnant smokers (≥1 cigarette/day) improves lung function and reduces risk for wheezing in infants. Researchers randomized 179 pregnant smokers who declined smoking cessation to receive vitamin C supplementation or placebo beginning at 22 weeks' gestation.

Infant pulmonary function tests (PFTs; ratio of time to peak tidal expiratory flow to expiratory time and passive respiratory system compliance per kg) measured within 72 hours of birth were significantly improved in the vitamin C group. Pulmonary function in newborns of mothers who r…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

Vitamin C Supplementation Improves Lung Function in Infants of Pregnant Smokers

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Reviewing Author