A pharmacist’s warning about vitamin D is usually a reminder that more is not always better. Vitamin D is important for bones, muscles, and immune function, but taking excessive amounts of supplements can cause problems.
What to know about vitamin D supplements
- Follow the recommended dose
- Many people take vitamin D safely at commonly recommended amounts, but very high doses should usually be taken only with medical guidance.
- Too much vitamin D can raise calcium levels
- Excess vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood), which may lead to symptoms such as:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Weakness or confusion
- Excess vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood), which may lead to symptoms such as:
- People who should be especially careful
- Those with kidney disease
- People with a history of kidney stones
- People taking calcium supplements or certain medications
- Anyone taking high-dose vitamin D prescribed for a deficiency
Before taking high-dose vitamin D
A healthcare professional may recommend a blood test to check vitamin D levels and determine whether supplementation is needed.
Don’t stop a prescribed vitamin D treatment without advice
If you were prescribed vitamin D for a documented deficiency, speak with your clinician before changing the dose.
If you tell me the vitamin D dose you take (IU amount), how often you take it, and your reason for taking it, I can help explain what that dose typically means and what precautions apply.
