Sodium ascorbate, a form of vitamin C, has been investigated as an adjunct in chemotherapy, primarily for its potential to reduce side effects and improve patient quality of life. Some preclinical studies and small clinical trials have suggested that high-dose intravenous vitamin C may help mitigate certain chemotherapy-induced toxicities, such as fatigue, nausea, and oxidative stress, due to its antioxidant properties. For example, a few phase I/II studies have reported reduced chemotherapy-related side effects and improved well-being in cancer patients receiving high-dose intravenous vitamin C alongside standard chemotherapy regimens.

However, the evidence supporting this use is limited and mixed. Most clinical trials have been small, uncontrolled, or of low methodological quality. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews generally conclude that there is insufficient high-quality evidence to recommend sodium ascorbate or other forms of vitamin C routinely for reducing chemotherapy side effects. Major cancer organizations do not endorse its use for this purpose outside of clinical trials. Additionally, there is some concern that antioxidants might interfere with the efficacy of certain chemotherapeutic agents, though this remains a topic of debate.

In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence for sodium ascorbate's supportive role during chemotherapy, robust clinical validation is lacking. Larger, well-designed trials are needed to determine efficacy and safety before it can be recommended as standard supportive care.