Using vitamin C to reduce pain after knee surgery
Official title: PeRiOperative VItamin C to Reduce perSistent paIn After tOtal kNee Arthroplasty (PROVISION): a Pilot Multicentre Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by University Health Network, Toronto · NCT06123715 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if giving vitamin C to people before and after knee surgery can help reduce their pain and improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 400 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 3 sites (Toronto, Ontario and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 16, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 23, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06123715 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults over 18 undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty for advanced osteoarthritis.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with specific contraindications such as infections, certain autoimmune diseases, or those with a history of kidney stones may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This pilot trial investigates the feasibility of using vitamin C to alleviate persistent pain in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. A total of 300 patients will be randomly assigned to receive either vitamin C or a placebo, with the vitamin C administered shortly before surgery and continued for eight weeks post-operatively. Participants will be monitored for pain levels, medication use, and quality of life at various follow-up points. The study aims to gather preliminary data to support a larger definitive trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce chronic pain following knee surgery, improving recovery and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of vitamin C in this context is novel, other studies have explored its effects on pain management with varying results.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients \>18 years old * Undergoing a unilateral or bilateral primary total knee arthroplasty for advanced osteoarthritis of the knee Exclusion Criteria: * TKA for infection (septic joint), fracture, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus, or psoriatic arthritis * History of kidney stones, acute or chronic renal failure, hemochromatosis, or glucose-6-phosphate deficiency * Unlikely to comply with follow-up (e.g., no fixed address, plans to move out of town) * Language difficulties that would impede valid completion of questionnaires * Planned staged bilateral TKA * Treating surgeon deems patient inappropriate for inclusion in trial * Any allergy or sensitivity to milk * Pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study
Where it's running
-
Sunnybrook - Holland Centre
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting -
Mount Sinai Hospital
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting -
Toronto Western Hospital
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: James Khan, MD — University Health Network; Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine
- Study coordinator: James Khan, MD
- Email: James.Khan@medportal.ca
- Phone: 416-340-4800
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.