The Effect of Bolus Vitamin D Supplementation

Abstract

Objectives : Vitamin D plays an important role in musculoskeletal and nervous system health. Although, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is fairly high and it may lead to bone abnormalities and muscle weakness, it is a preventable condition. The aim of this prospective study was to assess the effects of vitamin D supplementation on balance, mobility, grip strength, fatigue, depression and quality of life. Materials and Methods : Between October 1, 2015 and December 31, 2015, a total of 92 patients with vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency were included in the study. Demographic characteristics of age, gender, height, weight, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin [25-(OH)D], parathyroid hormone, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), calcium, and phosphorus levels were recorded. The primary outcome was assessed the [25-(OH) D] levels at 1 month and 3 month post-treatment. The secondary outcomes were the efficacy of vitamin D administration on fatigue, mobility, balance, depression, quality of life (QoL), muscle strength using The Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue Scale (MAF), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), Single leg stance test (SLS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), The Nottingham Health Profile(NHP), hand dynamometer, respectively at all visits. Results : After the 1 month, the vitamin D supplementation had significantly improved muscle strength, balance ability, mobility, QoL, depression, and fatigue symptoms. The levels of [25-(OH) D] significant decreased after 3 months. Conclusion : Supplemental vitamin D consistently demonstrated beneficial effects on muscle strength, mobility, balance control, depression, fatigue and QoL. The 300,000 bolus of vitamin D was well-tolerated and safe in adult population. We would recommend evaluating vitamin D status once in three months.