Treatment of rickets and tetany by parenteral administration of one massive dose of vitamin D

Abstract

<h2>Summary</h2> The harmlessness of one single dose of 600,000 units of vitamin D is shown theoretically and is practically demonstrated by its administration to 158 children in whom no toxic manifestations occurred. The parenteral administration of one massive vitamin D dose is recommended for certain clinical purposes. The absorption of parenteral vitamin D depots can be accelerated by using a mixture of oil and ether instead of oil alone as solvent. The superiority of an oil-ether mixture in this respect is demonstrated by animal experiment. Rickets and tetany respond to this form of parenteral vitamin D shock therapy as promptly as to the oral administration of equal doses of vitamin D. Serum calcium and phosphorus become normal usually after three to seven days. Roentgenographic evidence of calcification shows within one week, and recalcification is usually complete thirty days after the beginning of the treatment. Tetanic convulsions cease within 24 hours after the parenteral administration of one massive dose of vitamin D.