Ascorbic Acid is a white to slightly yellow powder with a strong acid taste. It melts at about 190 °C with decomposition. Ascorbic Acid is freely soluble in water and sparingly soluble in alcohol. It is fairly stable to air if protected from humidity, but is somewhat sensitive to heat. Ascorbic Acid is used as an antioxidant and preservative in many pharmaceutical formulations. It helps prevent oxidation of drugs and extend shelf life of products. Ascorbic Acid protects active drug molecules from degradation. It is commonly used as an excipient in tablets, capsules, syrups, injections and other dosage forms. Ascorbic Acid plays a vital role in stabilizing drugs and ensuring efficacy of medicines over the intended shelf life.