What are the common side effects of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol). How can you manage potential risks of Vitamin D3 supplementation. What are the long-term effects of excessive Vitamin D3 intake. When should you seek medical attention for Vitamin D3 side effects.

Understanding Vitamin D3: Benefits and Potential Risks

Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is a crucial nutrient for maintaining healthy bones, supporting immune function, and regulating calcium absorption in the body. While it offers numerous health benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects, especially when taking supplements.

Vitamin D3 is primarily obtained through sunlight exposure, certain foods, and dietary supplements. However, excessive intake, particularly from supplements, can lead to adverse effects. Understanding these risks is vital for safe and effective supplementation.

Why is Vitamin D3 supplementation necessary?

Vitamin D3 supplementation is often recommended for individuals who:

• Have limited sun exposure
• Live in northern latitudes
• Have darker skin tones
• Are older adults
• Have certain medical conditions affecting vitamin D absorption

Common Side Effects of Vitamin D3 Supplementation

While Vitamin D3 is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects, particularly when taking high doses. It’s important to note that these side effects are typically associated with excessive intake rather than normal dietary consumption or moderate supplementation.

What are the most frequently reported side effects of Vitamin D3?

Common side effects of Vitamin D3 supplementation include:

1. Stomach pain or discomfort
2. Nausea
3. Headache
4. Constipation
5. Diarrhea
6. Loss of appetite
7. Fatigue

These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

How can you manage common side effects of Vitamin D3?

To minimize the risk of side effects:

• Take Vitamin D3 supplements with food to reduce stomach discomfort
• Stay well-hydrated to prevent constipation
• Start with a lower dose and gradually increase as recommended by your healthcare provider
• Consider splitting the daily dose into two smaller doses taken at different times of the day

Serious Side Effects and Warning Signs

While rare, serious side effects can occur with excessive Vitamin D3 intake. These are typically associated with vitamin D toxicity, which results from extremely high doses over an extended period.

What are the signs of Vitamin D3 toxicity?

Symptoms of Vitamin D3 toxicity may include:

• Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels)
• Kidney stones
• Confusion
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe bone or joint pain
• Excessive urination
• Weakness
• Weight loss

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Prompt intervention is crucial to prevent long-term complications.

Long-Term Effects of Excessive Vitamin D3 Intake

Prolonged excessive intake of Vitamin D3 can lead to more severe health issues. Understanding these potential long-term effects is crucial for safe supplementation practices.

What are the potential long-term consequences of Vitamin D3 overconsumption?

Long-term effects of excessive Vitamin D3 intake may include:

1. Calcification of soft tissues, including blood vessels and organs
2. Kidney damage or failure
3. Osteoporosis (due to calcium leaching from bones)
4. Cognitive impairment
5. Increased risk of falls and fractures in older adults

These risks underscore the importance of adhering to recommended dosages and regular monitoring when taking Vitamin D3 supplements.

Interactions and Precautions with Vitamin D3 Supplementation

Vitamin D3 can interact with various medications and health conditions. Being aware of these interactions is crucial for safe supplementation.

Which medications may interact with Vitamin D3?

Vitamin D3 may interact with:

• Certain antiseizure medications
• Steroids
• Cholesterol-lowering statins
• Weight loss drugs like orlistat
• Some blood pressure medications

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Are there specific health conditions that require caution with Vitamin D3 supplementation?

Individuals with the following conditions should exercise caution and consult their healthcare provider before taking Vitamin D3 supplements:

1. Hypercalcemia
2. Kidney disease or kidney stones
3. Sarcoidosis
4. Atherosclerosis
5. Histoplasmosis
6. Hyperparathyroidism
7. Lymphoma

Proper Dosage and Administration of Vitamin D3

Determining the right dosage of Vitamin D3 is crucial for maximizing benefits while minimizing risks. Dosage requirements can vary based on individual factors such as age, sun exposure, and overall health status.

What is the recommended daily intake of Vitamin D3?

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for Vitamin D3 varies by age:

• 0-12 months: 400 IU (10 mcg)
• 1-70 years: 600 IU (15 mcg)
• 71+ years: 800 IU (20 mcg)

However, some individuals may require higher doses under medical supervision. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosage recommendations.

How should Vitamin D3 supplements be taken for optimal absorption?

To enhance Vitamin D3 absorption:

1. Take supplements with a meal containing healthy fats
2. Consider taking it in the morning to align with natural circadian rhythms
3. Pair it with magnesium-rich foods or supplements, as magnesium aids in Vitamin D metabolism
4. Ensure adequate calcium intake, as Vitamin D helps calcium absorption

Monitoring and Managing Vitamin D3 Levels

Regular monitoring of Vitamin D levels is crucial, especially for individuals taking supplements or at risk of deficiency. This helps ensure optimal levels are maintained without risking toxicity.

How often should Vitamin D levels be checked?

The frequency of Vitamin D testing depends on individual risk factors and supplementation status:

• For those not taking supplements: Annual testing may be sufficient
• For individuals on high-dose supplements: Testing every 3-6 months is recommended
• Those with certain medical conditions: More frequent testing as advised by a healthcare provider

Your healthcare provider can determine the appropriate testing schedule based on your specific needs and risk factors.

What are the optimal blood levels of Vitamin D?

While there’s some debate among experts, generally accepted ranges for blood Vitamin D levels are:

1. Deficient: Less than 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L)
2. Insufficient: 21-29 ng/mL (52-72 nmol/L)
3. Sufficient: 30-50 ng/mL (75-125 nmol/L)
4. High: Above 50 ng/mL (125 nmol/L)

Levels above 100 ng/mL (250 nmol/L) are considered potentially toxic and require immediate medical attention.

Natural Sources of Vitamin D and Alternatives to Supplements

While supplements are a common source of Vitamin D3, there are several natural ways to increase your intake. Understanding these alternatives can help you maintain healthy Vitamin D levels without relying solely on supplements.

What are the best natural sources of Vitamin D?

Natural sources of Vitamin D include:

• Sunlight exposure (UVB rays trigger Vitamin D production in the skin)
• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Egg yolks
• Beef liver
• Mushrooms exposed to UV light
• Fortified foods (milk, orange juice, cereals)

Incorporating these sources into your diet can help maintain adequate Vitamin D levels naturally.

How much sun exposure is needed for adequate Vitamin D production?

The amount of sun exposure needed varies based on factors such as:

1. Skin tone (darker skin requires more exposure)
2. Time of day and season
3. Latitude
4. Age
5. Use of sunscreen

Generally, 10-30 minutes of midday sun exposure to the face, arms, and legs, 2-3 times a week, can help maintain adequate Vitamin D levels for many people. However, it’s important to balance sun exposure with skin cancer risk.

By understanding the potential side effects, proper dosage, and alternative sources of Vitamin D3, individuals can make informed decisions about supplementation and maintain optimal health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Side effects of colecalciferol – NHS

Like all medicines, colecalciferol can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

There are things you can do to help cope with these common side effects of colecalciferol:

Stomach (gastrointestinal) pain

Speak to your doctor if you have a pain in your stomach.

Feeling sick (nausea)

Try taking your tablets with food. It may also help if you avoid rich or spicy food.

If it carries on, tell your doctor. They may be able to prescribe an extra medicine to protect your stomach.

Headache

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if a side effect continues to bother you, or lasts more than a few days.

Serious side effects

Speak to your doctor or contact 111 if:

• you find that you need to pee more often
• you get swelling in any part of your body
• you get a high temperature and a sharp pain in your side or on one side of your lower back – this could be the early stages of kidney stones
• you are sick (vomit), feel confused, get bone or joint pain, or an irregular heartbeat – these could be signs of too much calcium (hypercalcemia)

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to colecalciferol.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:

• you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling

You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Long-term side effects

Taking too much colecalciferol over a long period of time can cause a skin rash. It can also cause high levels of calcium.

Too much calcium in your body (hypercalcaemia) can cause stomach pain, weaken your bones and damage your kidneys and heart.

Your doctor will arrange a blood test to check your calcium levels. If your test result shows that your calcium levels are high, they may ask you to stop taking colecalciferol until your calcium levels are normal again.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of colecalciferol. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine’s packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 10 January 2023

Next review due: 10 January 2026

Calcium vitamin D3 supplementation in clinical practice: side effect and satisfaction

J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2016; 15: 5.

Published online 2016 Mar 10. doi: 10.1186/s40200-016-0227-9

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Author information Article notes Copyright and License information Disclaimer

Background

The objective of this study was to assess side effects and satisfaction about OsteoCalVitFort (500 mg calcium and 400 I. U. of vitamin D3) usage.

Methods

A total 186 people were participated with range age from 18 to 65 years old. Each participant received 1 pack that contains 60 OsteoCalVitFort tablet and used two tablet OsteoCalVitFort daily (1 tablet after breakfast and 1 after dinner). By a phone call, side effects and satisfaction about OsteoCalVitFort were assessed.

Results

The rate of constipating (8.0 %) and bloating (12.5 %) were decreased significantly after OsteoCalVitFort supplement intake (1.2 %, and 0.6 %, respectively). Similar results were observed in metallic taste in mouth, tiredness, weakness, loss of appetite, bone/muscle pain and mental/mood change after Calcium Vitamin D3 supplementation intake. Totally, 94 % of patients were satisfied about OsteoCalVitFort usage.

Conclusion

The results of the research indicate despite the high quality of OsteoCalVitFort supplement, there are no side effects which have been seen in other supplements.

Keywords: Calcium, Vitamin D, Side effect

There is little debate about calcium needs during lifespan for optimizing health in health of bone and out of bone [1, 2]. Many people are avoid or limit dairy products because of lactase intolerant, then they have no choice but to eat supplement [3–5]. Calcium supplements cause few, if any, side effects, unfortunately [6]. Side effects can sometimes occur, including gas, constipation, bloating, nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, mental/mood changes, and bone/muscle pain. Vitamin D3 is used to facilitate absorption of the calcium in the gut [7, 8], and to facilitate calcium incorporation in the bones. Low vitamin D levels are associated with impairment of the active absorption of calcium [9]. Fortified Vitamin D3 with calcium without gastrointestinal side effect is a greatest effective factor to prevent bone loss [10–12]. OsteoCalVitFort seems more potent form of other Vitamin D and Calcium supplement (500 mg calcium and 400 I.U. of vitamin D3). The aim of this study was to evaluate side effects and satisfaction level of OsteoCalVitFort among people who consumed calcium supplement.

This study was single arm, prospective study that was done on 186 people who consumed Calcium supplement. Inclusion criteria were participants with age between 45 to 70 years old, in good health. Exclusion criteria were presence of any chronic illness such as chronic hepatic diseases, chronic kidney diseases, cardiac, hematologic, gastrointestinal, psychological problems, any diagnosed malignancy, history of active inflammatory illness, breast feeding, pregnancy, and history of kidney stone, hyperparathyroidism. After complete explanation of the study aim, informed consent from each participant was gathered.

Each participant received 1 pack that contains 60 OsteoCalVitFort tablet and used two tablet OsteoCalVitFort daily (1 tablet after breakfast and 1 after dinner). Side effects and satisfaction about OsteoCalVitFort consumption were assessed through case report form (CRF) by phone call.

Ethical considerations

This study was proposed and approved by the Ethics-in-Research Commission of Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Also, it has been registered on the Iranian clinical trial registration (www.irct.ir) as IRCT201312031414N30.

Statistical analysis

Data were analyzed by using the SPSS version 16 for Windows (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL). The one–way ANOVA was used to determine the statistical significance of differences between the values for this study. Values of p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

The samples were composed of 166 (89.2 %) women and 20 (10.8 %) men with mean age of 52.78 ± 13.21, and 49.0 ± 16.50, respectively. The rate of low illiterate was 32.8 %, of illiterate was 1.07 %, of diploma was 36.2 %, and of high was 20.3 %.

The rate of constipating (8.0 %) and bloating (12.5 %) were decreased significantly after OsteoCalVitFort supplement intake (1.2 %, and 0.6 %, respectively). The percent of metallic taste in mouth at the first study (8.0 %) was significantly reduced compared to end of study (0.6 %). Significantly, the rate of tiredness (9. 7 %), weakness (5.1 %), and loss of appetite (1.7 %) were decreased compared to OsteoCalVitFort supplement intake (0.6 %, 1.2 %, and 0.6 %, respectively). Significant decrease in bone/muscle pain changes was observed at the end of study (Table ).

Table 1

Comparison of the previous and next effects of taking OsteoCalVitFort

Side effects	Before Practice	After Practice	P-value
Nausea/Vomiting	2.3*	4.9	0.22
Constipating	8.0	1.2	0.003
Gas	6. 8	2.5	0.146
Diarrhea	0.6	1.2	1.000
Bloating	12.5	0.6	0.000
Loss of appetite	1.7	0.6	0.04
Dry Mouth	8.5	3.1	0.07
Metallic taste in mouth	8.0	0.6	0.001
Increased thirst/urine	6.8	1. 2	0.02
Tiredness	9.7	0.6	0.001
Weakness	5.1	1.2	0.03
Headache	7.4	3.1	0.057
Bone/muscle pain	12.5	1.2	0.000

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*%, P-value <0.05

Totally, 94 % of participants were satisfaction with using OsteoCalVitFort supplement.

Osteoporosis is major medical issues at the community level and can be lead to excessive [13–17]. A study in Iran has shown that Osteoporosis is an important health challenge and increases with age and changes in life style [18]. Dietary calcium is critical for the growth and development of the body skeleton and it seems plays a vital role in the prevention of osteoporosis [19]. Many people are avoided dairy products because of lactase intolerant. In these situations, calcium supplements can help them meet their calcium requirements [5].

OsteoCalVitFort contain high amounts of vitamin D with calcium. The role of vitamin D is bone preservation by improving the absorption of calcium from food and reduce fractures in older [18]. Most people who received Calcium, Vitamin D supplementation meet the gastrointestinal side effects and they are not satisfied for this obligatory administered by their physician. After consume of OsteoCalVitFort significant positive impact in constipating, bloating, metallic taste in mouth, thirst, tiredness, weakness, loss of appetite, and bone/muscle pain were observed.

The present study showed satisfaction level of OsteoCalVitFort intakes about 94 % of patients was satisfied. Consumers have multiple brands from which to choose but few assurances that the products are of high quality. Intake of OsteoCalVitFort can lead to Compensation amounts of Calcium and vitamin D. This supplement has no side effects. Satisfaction is a behavioral perspective on product consumer and it is too important that quality and satisfaction to be in a line.

The results of this survey have shown despite the high quality of OsteoCalVitFort supplement, there are not side effects which have been seen in other supplements.

We would like to thank all the patients who kindly participated in the study.

Competing interests

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Authors’ contributions

All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

Maryam Sanaei, Email: moc.oohay@mayramieanas.

Mohammad Banasiri, Email: moc.oohay@irisanab.

Gita Shafiee, Email: [email protected].

Mahsa Rostami, Email: moc. oohay@mtsr_asham.

Saba Alizad, Email: [email protected].

Mehdi Ebrahimi, Email: moc.oohay@imiharbe.

Bagher Larijani, Email: ri.ca.smut@binajiral.

Ramin Heshmat, Email: ri.ca.smut@tamhsehr.

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An excess of vitamin D: what is dangerous, symptoms and signs of an overdose, vitamin norms in the body

It has long been known that vitamin D is one of the most important biologically active substances that help both strengthen physical health and achieve a stable working psyche.

However, not everyone knows that an overdose of vitamin D causes no less harm than its lack – especially for young children. Moreover, up to a certain point, the body can successfully fight the intake of an excess amount of a substance, so the result from its intake is not immediately visible, and the toxic effect is usually delayed.

On average, it takes about 1-4 months for a child’s body to show symptoms of an overdose.

Overdose symptoms

There are two forms of vitamin D overdose – acute and chronic.

In the acute form, the reaction in children manifests itself after 2-10 weeks and is expressed in lethargy, thirst, vomiting, pallor of the skin, headache, stool disorders, itching of the skin, pain in the epigastric region.

In chronic overdose, symptoms develop gradually over several months. The child’s appetite decreases, sleep disturbance, irritability, and frequent urination are noted. There may be pain in the bones, in the lumbar and cardiac region.

What happens inside the body?

The most common side effect is an excess of calcium in the blood. This condition negatively affects the functioning of the digestive system – hence symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Trying to remove excess calcium in the urine, the kidneys do not fully cope with this task. As a result, calcium salts are deposited in the renal pelvis and ureters, which leads to the formation of stones. Some of the salts also settle on the walls of blood vessels, in the heart, lungs, liver, and spleen. Organs begin to increase in size.

What about babies?

Overdose of any drug occurs much faster in infants than in older children. Indeed, in children of the first year of life, there is still not much adipose tissue, where all the excess can be deposited, and therefore the substance accumulates in large quantities in the blood.

Babies with signs of hypervitaminosis usually do not sleep well, cry at night, lose their appetite, lose weight dramatically. There may be frequent regurgitation, diarrhea, vomiting. When anxiety symptoms appear, parents should definitely show the child to the doctor.

How much vitamin do you need?

Although vitamin D is not a drug, dosage decisions should be made by a physician. It is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of a small patient, such as age, skin pigment, the presence / absence of digestive problems, intolerance to any products, allergic reactions, etc.

Children are usually advised to have a blood test before taking. Based on the results of the analysis obtained, a prophylactic or therapeutic dose is prescribed.

If there is no opportunity to conduct such a study, most likely the child will be prescribed a prophylactic dose, which, depending on the region of residence, ranges from 500 (in the middle and southern latitudes) to 1000 (in the north) IU per day.

Thus, vitamin D refers to those substances that are beneficial only in a certain amount. In order to prevent an overdose, parents should follow three simple rules:0038

Vitamin D3 – instructions for use, description, reviews of patients and doctors, analogues

Some facts

Studies by biochemist Hector Deluca have proven the presence of receptors for cholecalciferol in many tissues of the body. This indicates that its activity is not limited to participation in calcium metabolism. Many previously unknown functions of the substance have been established, such as: modulation of the secretion of insulin and other hormone-like substances, participates in cholesterol metabolism, and inhibits the growth of cancer cells.
The substance is formed in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. They are also saturated with food (fish, milk, cheese, mushrooms, butter, and others). With insufficient intake of it with food and low production in the body, metabolic disorders occur. To prevent which, synthesized Vitamin D3 is used, which replenishes reserves and performs the functions of a physiological analogue.

Pharmacological effect

The pharmacological action of the drug is to regulate various processes in the body. It controls the proliferation and differentiation of many cells and tissues. Participates in all metabolic processes, regulating the production of receptor proteins, enzyme systems and hormones. The drug performs its functions at the genomic level. It binds to the DNA of the cell and controls the processes of biosynthesis of the necessary proteins.
The main role is to maintain the level of phosphorus and calcium in the blood, which prevents osteomalacia and bone resorption. The drug is effective for the treatment of various diseases and prevents disorders in the body.

Composition

The composition of 1 capsule of Vitamin D3 includes 600 IU of the active substance and auxiliary components, including glycerin, gelatin, oil and water.

Indications for use

The drug is prescribed for the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The indication for use is osteoporosis, in which the strength of bones decreases and the microarchitectonics of bone tissue is disturbed. The drug is used for the treatment and prevention of rickets, hypoparathyroidism, osteomalacia, spasmophilia and tetany.
It is also prescribed for deficient conditions of various etiologies. Preventive courses of Vitamin D3 are prescribed for Crohn’s disease, malabsorption, liver cirrhosis, after surgical interventions with resection elements. In pediatrics, it is used to strengthen the systems of a growing organism that needs nutrients.

Side effects

Side effects occur when the medication is not taken adequately. Vitamin D3 poisoning is manifested in the demineralization of bone tissue, disruption of the heart, kidneys and intestines as a result of the deposition of calcium in them. Excessively high levels of calcium in the bloodstream lead to headaches, nausea, vomiting, thirst, and joint pain. The first aid is the intake of glucocorticosteroids, calcium antagonists and symptomatic therapy.
Contraindications include impaired renal function, intolerance to components, high levels of calcium in the blood.

Pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy and lactation are not included in the list of contraindications. In such states, women give the child all their resources and minerals. They need to replenish the body’s vitamin supply to ensure the health of themselves and the baby. Specialists prescribe Vitamin D3, taking into account the need in a particular case and taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient’s body.

Instruction

In order to prevent rickets-like conditions in newborns, the dose of the drug is 625 IU per day. For the treatment of rickets in children, the daily requirement will be 5000 IU, the course lasts one year. In the fight against osteoporosis, it is recommended to take 3000 IU every day.
The required concentration of the substance depends on the severity of the disease, the stage of the course, the degree of damage and the individual characteristics of the patient’s body.

Reception features

The drug belongs to fat-soluble vitamins, so it should be taken with fat-rich food to improve absorption of the substance. Precautions should be taken to follow the recommendations for use and the prescribed dosage.

Alcohol compatible

When alcohol is abused, the functions of the liver are impaired. With a decrease in the concentration of liver enzymes, the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins is impaired. It follows from this that the drug is not compatible with the intake of alcohol, since it reduces its effectiveness and causes hypovitaminosis.

Interaction with other drugs

While taking Vitamin D3 with thiazide diuretics and benzodiazepines, the risk of developing hypercalcemia increases. Glucocorticosteroids reduce the effectiveness of the drug and block its effect on metabolic processes. Mineral oils reduce the absorption of a substance in the gastrointestinal tract and force it to increase its concentration when taken.

Overdose

With a longer intake and use of a high dosage, the phenomenon of hypervitaminosis may occur. To prevent harmful effects on the body, you must follow the instructions for use and consult a doctor.

Similar drugs

Analogues include: Aquavit D3, Tridevita, Alpha D3-Teva, Ergocalciferol.

Terms of sale

The drug can be purchased in many pharmacy chains or ordered online without a prescription.

Testimonials from patients and doctors

Many doctors in their practice prescribe Vitamin D3 for complex treatment and strengthening of the body of patients.
Judging by consumer reviews, the use of the product is more than justified and, if taken correctly, does not cause undesirable effects.