Early Administration of Vitamin C in Patients With Sepsis or Septic Shock in Emergency Departments

In this clinical trial the effect of early administration of Vitamin C is investigated in patients admitted at the emergency department with sepsis or septic shock. When a patient has sepsis, his/her body is causing damage to its own tissues and organs as result of an infection. This can lead to septic shock. The patient has a low blood pressure, his/her organs stop working and the patient may even die. The aim of this trial is to investigate the efficiency of Vitamin C in sepsis and septic shock. Vitamin C is a vitamin present in various foods and has been approved as dietary supplement by the Belgian authorities. Over the years it has been proven that Vitamin C is very safe. In addition, several studies have shown that Vitamin C can also have a protective effect. It can reduce organ damage and increase survival rates. Although several studies suggest that Vitamin C can help fight sepsis, it is not yet used in practice. This Belgian trial, in which several hospitals participate, hopes to provide a clear answer to the question: "Should Vitamin C be administered to patients admitted in an emergency department with sepsis or septic shock?"