Can You Take Catalase and Vitamin C Together?

Dose or timing may matter

The short answer

High-dose Vitamin C can act as a pro-oxidant generating hydrogen peroxide, which is a mechanism behind some of its therapeutic effects. Catalase directly breaks down hydrogen peroxide, potentially counteracting this pro-oxidant pathway.

How to arrange timing

If using high-dose Vitamin C for its pro-oxidant effects, avoid taking catalase at the same time. For standard antioxidant doses, this interaction is less relevant.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Chen Q, et al. Pharmacologic ascorbic acid concentrations selectively kill cancer cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2005;102(38):13604-13609.

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.