Efficacy Of Vitamin Research Articles

Safety And Efficacy of Vitamin C And E in Preventing Preeclampsia in High-Risk Pregnant Women: A Randomized, Controlled Study

Safety And Efficacy of Vitamin C And E in Preventing Preeclampsia in High-Risk Pregnant Women: A Randomized, Controlled Study

Efficacy of vitamin D supplementation on glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

To assess the effects of vitamin D interventions on glycaemic control in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies. Serum 25(OH)D, fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, fasting insulin and Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) were analysed. We identified 39 randomized controlled trials involving 2982 subjects. Results showed a significant decline in the vitamin D group, as shown by the FBG weighted mean difference (WMD; -0.49 [95% confidence interval {CI}: -0.69 to -0.28] mmol/L), HbA1c (WMD -0.30% [95% CI: -0.43 to -0.18]), HOMA-IR (WMD -0.39 [95% CI -0.64 to -0.14]) and insulin (WMD -1.31 [95% CI: -2.06 to -0.56] μIU/mL). Subgroup analyses indicated that the effects of vitamin D supplementation on glycaemic control depend on the dosage and duration of supplementation, baseline 25(OH)D levels and the body mass index of patients with T2D. Vitamin D supplementation can significantly reduce serum FBG, HbA1c, HOMA-IR and fasting insulin levels in T2D patients; the effects were especially prominent when vitamin D was given in a short-term, high dosage to patients with a vitamin D deficiency, who were overweight, or had an HbA1c of 8% or higher at baseline. Our study suggests that vitamin D supplements can be recommended as complementary treatment for T2D patients.

The Efficacy of Vitamins in the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease.

Vitamins are known to affect the regulation of several biochemical and metabolic pathways that influence cellular function. Adequate amounts of both hydrophilic and lipophilic vitamins are required for maintaining normal cardiac and vascular function, but their deficiencies can contribute to cardiovascular abnormalities. In this regard, a deficiency in the lipophilic vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, and E, as well as in the hydrophilic vitamins, such as vitamin C and B, has been associated with suboptimal cardiovascular function, whereas additional intakes have been suggested to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, and heart failure. Here, we have attempted to describe the association between low vitamin status and cardiovascular disease, and to offer a discussion on the efficacy of vitamins. While there are inconsistencies in the impact of a deficiency in vitamins on the development of cardiovascular disease and the benefits associated with supplementation, this review proposes that specific vitamins may contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular disease in individuals at risk rather than serve as an adjunct therapy.

Efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in the treatment of patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Context: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has substantial effects on respiratory health and overall well-being. Recent studies suggest vitamin D as a potential treatment, but the results are inconclusive. Objective: We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to examine the link between vitamin D and patients with COVID-19. Data Sources: We searched electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL, EMBASE and Google Scholar from their inception till August 2023. Study Selection: Inclusion criteria used in our systematic review include: 1) patients who tested positive for COVID-19 2) intervention was vitamin D supplementation 3) the comparator was either a placebo, standard care of treatment, or, no treatment, 4) at least one of the clinical outcomes of interest were investigated 5) study design being RCTs. Data Extraction: Two independent reviewers manually extracted information from selected articles, including study characteristics, patient characteristics, and the primary outcomes: all-cause mortality, ICU and hospital stay length and secondary outcomes: mechanical ventilation, supplemental oxygen, ICU admission, and adverse events. Risk Ratios or Mean Differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using a random-effects model. Data Synthesis: Our analysis included 14 RCTs with 2165 patients. Vitamin D significantly reduced ICU admissions and lowered the need for mechanical ventilation compared to placebo. However, it did not significantly affect hospital stay length, ICU stay length, mechanical ventilation duration, mortality, or the need for supplemental oxygen. Conclusion: Vitamin D does not significantly improve certain clinical outcomes, such as hospital and ICU stay length, for patients with COVID-19. However, it still may be significantly beneficial in decreasing the burden on intensive care services.

Association of vitamin D deficiency with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma risk: A retrospective cohort study from the TriNetX US collaborative networks.

77 Background: Emerging evidence highlights the critical role of vitamin D in liver health, especially concerning the risk of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This investigation aims to explore the association between vitamin D deficiency and the prevalence of these liver diseases, contrasting outcomes between individuals with deficient and normal vitamin D levels. Methods: This cohort study utilized the US Collaborative Network within the TrinetX database, encompassing 63 medical institutions. It enrolled participants aged 20 years and older from 2011 to 2023. Vitamin D status was determined through serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, categorizing deficiency as 20-30 ng/mL and normal levels as 30-80 ng/mL. Employing 1:1 propensity score matching, the study controlled for 32 characteristics, such as demographic information, health conditions, and medication use, to ensure equitable group comparisons. Additionally, a 1-year washout period was established. The primary aim was to assess the incidence of liver cirrhosis and HCC over a decade. Results: Analyzing data from over 1.86 million participants, the study ensured a balanced comparison across all variables. Participants had an average age of 50.6 years, with 66% identifying as white and 9% as black. Notably, vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with an increased risk of liver cirrhosis (HR 1.16 [CI 1.11-1.21]) and HCC (HR 1.25 [CI 1.15-1.36]). Kaplan-Meier cumulative risk analysis further confirmed these elevated risks for both liver conditions in individuals with vitamin D deficiency compared to those with sufficient levels. Conclusions: This study confirms a significant association between vitamin D deficiency and a higher risk of liver cirrhosis and HCC, underscoring the importance of vitamin D in maintaining liver health. The findings support the potential of vitamin D level management as a preventive strategy against liver diseases. The implications of this research necessitate further exploration into the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation for liver disease prevention.

Vitamin K Antagonists for Pregnant Women With Antiphospholipid Antibodies: A Scoping Review.

To describe characteristics of published research on the safety and efficacy of vitamin K antagonists (VKA) for pregnant patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), including their methodological characteristics and knowledge gaps. This study followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews protocol system. Studies were primarily identified through searching electronic databases including MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Study characteristics and outcomes were reported and described using customized charting tables. Of 1528 publications, 17 remained in the final analysis. These reported up to 190 VKA-treated aPL-positive pregnancies diagnosed as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS); pregnancy cases were likely overlapping in some publications. In the 17 reports, there were 723 individuals in comparison groups, including healthy pretreatment pregnancies and women with APS treated with standard therapies without VKA. However, only 4 (23.5%) of the 17 publications stated a study objective focusing on VKA use, of which only one was a full-length article. In addition, information on VKA doses, disease diagnostic criteria, and the long-term outcomes of offspring were largely absent. The current evidence is insufficient to assess VKA efficacy and safety profiles in aPL-positive pregnant patients. Studies with a defined focus on VKA use in this population are lacking, and reporting of key information is not consistent. The relative lack of knowledge of VKA use in pregnant women with APS is concerning, and efficacy and safety questions remain.

Efficacy of vitamin C on chemotherapy-related anemia in pancreatic cancer: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIn the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer, chemotherapy plays a pivotal role. Despite its effectiveness, this regimen is often marred by side effects such as anemia, neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, and malnutrition, which significantly affect patients’ tolerance to the treatment. Some studies have shown that vitamin C could potentially augment chemotherapy’s tolerability, notably by boosting iron absorption, ameliorating anemia, and relieving pain and numbness in hands and feet. Nevertheless, the integration of vitamin C with chemotherapy to mitigate toxic side effects and enhance the quality of life for advanced pancreatic cancer patients has not been examined in any randomized controlled trials to date.MethodsA prospective, single-center, open-label, randomized controlled trial will be conducted at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center from September 2023 to September 2026. A total of at least 100 patients with advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma exhibiting distant metastases will be recruited and randomly assigned to the chemotherapy group or the chemotherapy plus vitamin C group. The primary endpoint is the rate of anemia. Secondary endpoints include the rate of grade 3 neuropathy, change of numeric rating scale, quality of life, and overall survival.DiscussionThis study aims to assess the impact of low-dose vitamin C on enhancing the quality of life for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer undergoing gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel chemotherapy.Trial registrationThe trial was registered with the ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06018883) on August 31, 2023.

Rise in Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the absence of established evidence-based treatment protocols led healthcare professionals and the public to explore experimental treatments, including high doses of vitamin D supplements. This study aimed to assess changes in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels during the pandemic, employing a retrospective cohort analysis of data from Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC). The study analyzed serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in a cohort of 35,556 patients treated at CAMC in 2019, a representative pre-pandemic period, to 2021, a representative pandemic period. Our findings revealed a significant increase in mean serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels as compared with 2019 (37 ± 21 vs. 31 ± 15 ng/mL, p ≤ 0.001). Additionally, in 2021, there were significantly more patients exhibiting serum levels in the highest quintiles, specifically >100 ng/mL (1.6% vs. 0.2%), 75-100 ng/mL (4.6% vs. 1.2%), and 50-75 ng/mL (16.0% vs. 8.4%), p ≤ 0.001. This upsurge suggests increased intake of vitamin D supplements, potentially fueled by widespread discussions that were taking place largely on the internet regarding the efficacy of vitamin D against COVID-19. Our findings underscore the critical need for evidence-based public health messaging, especially during health crises, to prevent unnecessary health risks and ensure patient safety.

Vitamin C Levels in Pregnant Women and the Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplements in Preventing Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is defined as the leakage of amniotic fluid before the onset of labor and delivery contractions. Some studies found that women who experienced PROM had significantly lower vitamin C blood levels than those who did not, while others found no significant differences. Previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the efficacy of vitamin C in the prevention of PROM had conflicting results. Conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine if there was a significant difference in vitamin C blood levels in women who had PROM versus the control group who did not and to determine if vitamin C supplements could help prevent it. Systematic review and meta-analysis. We registered our protocol with PROSPERO (CRD42022371644). We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus through February 15, 2024. Additionally, backward and forward citation searches were conducted. Studies were selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Meta-Essentials: Workbooks for Meta-Analysis (version 1.5) was used for analysis. Twenty-five studies (26 reports) met all eligibility criteria, with 18 studies (18 reports) assessing vitamin C levels and seven studies (eight reports) evaluating efficacy. Women with PROM, whether preterm or term, had significantly lower vitamin C levels [Hedges’ g, -1.48; 95% confidence interval (CI): -2.82, -0.14; p = 0.020; I2 = 94.08%) and specifically preterm PROM after removing the outlying study [Hedges’ g, -1.29; 95% CI: -1.85, -0.73; p < 0.001; I2 = 87.35%). Vitamin C supplementation significantly reduced the risk of preterm or term PROM [risk ratio (RR), 0.57; 95% CI: 0.39, 0.81; p < 0.001; I2 = 12.17%), particularly for preterm PROM (RR, 0.67; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.99; p = 0.001; I2 = 0.00%). There were no significant differences in vitamin C levels between women with term PROM and controls, and there were no differences in the risk of developing term PROM between women taking vitamin C supplements and controls. Results were not robust in all sensitivity analyses. Women with PROM, particularly those who developed it preterm, appear to have significantly lower vitamin C levels, and vitamin C supplementation appears to be effective in reducing the risk of PROM, particularly preterm PROM. More high-quality studies with low risk of bias, more homogenous, and larger samples are needed to confirm these findings.

Role of vitamin D supplement adjunct to topical benzoyl peroxide in acne: a randomized double-blinded controlled study

Background: Acne is an inflammatory condition of the pilosebaceous unit. Previous studies have established a link between acne and vitamin D deficiency and the potential effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in treatment. However, the efficacy of vitamin D as an adjuvant treatment for acne remains unknown. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of weekly vitamin D2 oral administration as an adjunctive treatment to standard topical care for acne. Methods: This study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial including subjects with mild-to-moderate acne. Topical 2.5% benzoyl peroxide was applied twice daily for 12 weeks to all subjects. Subjects were randomly allocated to receive either oral vitamin D2 40,000 IU weekly or placebo weekly during the treatment period. No additional treatment was administered during the 4-week follow-up period. Results: A total of 44 subjects were included in this study. All of them had inadequate 25(OH)D levels. Both regimens showed significant improvement in acne during the treatment period. Weekly vitamin D2 supplementation significantly prevented the relapse of inflammatory acne lesions (P = .048) at the follow-up visit. No adverse effects or biochemical changes were observed. Limitations: There were no subjects of severe acne vulgaris. Conclusion: Adjunctive weekly vitamin D2 supplementation to standard topical benzoyl peroxide could reduce relapses of inflammatory lesions in mild-to-moderate acne.

The effect of vitamin D supplementation on muscle strength in community-dwelling postmenopausal Asian women: a scoping review

Approximately 40% of the community-dwelling population aged over 65 experiences falls annually, leading to significant morbidity, immobility, and mortality, with reduced muscle strength identified as a major risk factor(1). In comparison to other ethnic populations, Asian older adults often demonstrate weaker muscle strength, with this decline accelerating notably in female Asian older adults as they age(2). Existing research indicates a correlation between vitamin D deficiency (circulating level of 25(OH)D below 50 nmol/L) and sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults(3). Postmenopausal women, experiencing a decline in oestrogen, face an elevated risk of vitamin D deficiency(4). Notably, vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in Asian populations(5). However, the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in promoting muscle strength among community-dwelling postmenopausal Asian women has not been comprehensively investigated. This scoping review aims to provide an overview and synthesis of existing evidence in the literature concerning the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in enhancing muscle strength among community-dwelling postmenopausal Asian women.A scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR recommendations(6). Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published from 2013 to 2023 were identified through searches conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central databases. Articles would be included if they: (i) were human RCTs with a cross-over or parallel design, (ii) included community-dwelling postmenopausal women, and (iii) investigated the effect of vitamin D supplementation on muscle strength. The review excluded: (i) in vivo animal studies, in vitro cell research, case reports, and observational studies; (ii) studies investigating the effect of vitamin D supplementation combined with other interventions, such as physical exercise, amino acid supplements, or other medication administration records like insulin or hormone therapy; and (iii) studies not in English. Following deduplication and relevance screening, five studies met the criteria, with Jadad scores (methodological quality assessment) of 1, 3, 5, 5, and 5, respectively.Five RCTs involving a total of 872 subjects were reviewed(7–11). The three studies with Jadad scores of 5 indicated statistically significant and meaningful increases in muscle strength, measured by handgrip strength, with p-values &lt;0.05 and effect sizes of 0.97, 1.75, and 3.83, respectively, indicating large effect sizes. The study with a Jadad score of 3 highlighted such increases only in the younger subgroup (&lt;68 years old). Conversely, the study with a Jadad score of 1 suggested no significant changes in muscle strength.In conclusion, this review suggests promising outcomes for vitamin D supplementation in enhancing muscle strength among postmenopausal Asian women. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency underscores potential health benefits, but heterogeneity in study designs, Jadad scores, and age subgroup responses necessitates cautious interpretation. Further high-quality research is imperative to elucidate optimal dosages and durations, ensuring a nuanced understanding of the relationship between vitamin D supplementation and muscle strength.

Vitamin C inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation and delays the development of age-related hearing loss in male C57BL/6 mice

The efficacy of vitamin C in age-related hearing loss, i.e., presbycusis, remains debatable. On a separate note, inflammation induced by the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is involved in the progression of presbycusis. In this study, we investigated the effect of vitamin C on male C57BL/6 mice’s presbycusis and NLRP3 inflammasome. The results showed that vitamin C treatment improved hearing, reduced the production of inflammatory factors, inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and decreased cytosolic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the C57BL/6 mouse cochlea, inferior colliculus, and auditory cortex. According to this study, vitamin C protects auditory function in male C57BL/6 presbycusis mice through reducing mtDNA release, inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the auditory pathway. Our study provides a theoretical basis for applying vitamin C to treat presbycusis.

Vitamin D Levels in Patients with Noninfectious Uveitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Purpose Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with higher rates of autoimmune disease, including noninfectious uveitis. This PRISMA-compliant review and meta-analysis aimed to analyze the correlation between noninfectious uveitis and vitamin D levels. Methods We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases for studies, published in English, assessing vitamin D levels in patients diagnosed with noninfectious uveitis. The outcomes of interest were vitamin D deficiency, vitamin D mean level, vitamin D supplementation, and smoking rates. A subgroup analysis of inactive uveitis and active uveitis was performed. The heterogeneity was assessed with Cochrane Q-test and I2 statistics; p > 0.10 and I2 > 50% were considered significant for heterogeneity. Statistical analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.3. Results 9 studies were included in the meta-analysis comprising a total of 10 711 patients, of whom 1,368 were diagnosed with noninfectious uveitis. Patients with noninfectious uveitis had worse results regarding vitamin D deficiency when compared with the control group (OR 0.58; CI 95% 0.44 to 0.77; p = 0.0002; I2 = 61%). Patients with inactive uveitis had better results towards vitamin D deficiency when compared with active uveitis (OR 5.00; CI 95% 2.84 to 8.81; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%). Conclusion Our research supports the increasing evidence that associates vitamin D deficiency with noninfectious uveitis and its activity. Further investigation into the efficacy of vitamin D screening and supplementation in reducing the recurrence of uveitis is necessary.

1,25-(OH)2D3 promotes hair growth by inhibiting NLRP3/IL-1β and HIF-1α/IL-1β signaling pathways

Vitamin D is a crucial vitamin that participates in various biological processes through the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR). While there are studies suggesting that VDR might regulate hair growth through ligand-independent mechanisms, the efficacy of Vitamin D in treating hair loss disorders has also been reported. Here, through in vivo experiments in mice, in vitro organ culture of hair follicles, and cellular-level investigations, we demonstrate that 1,25-(OH)2D3 promotes mouse hair regeneration, prolongs the hair follicle anagen, and enhances the proliferation and migration capabilities of dermal papilla cells and outer root sheath keratinocytes in a VDR-dependent manner. Transcriptome analysis of VDR-knockout mouse skin reveals the involvement of HIF-1α, NLRP3, and IL-1β in these processes. Finally, we confirm that 1,25-(OH)2D3 can counteract the inhibitory effects of DHT on hair growth. These findings suggest that 1,25-(OH)2D3 has a positive impact on hair growth and may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for androgenetic alopecia (AGA).

Efficacy of vitamin D supplementation on hepcidin/ferroportin axis and VDR expression in HFHF-fed rats

يعد إستهداف محور الهيبسيدين- فيروبورتن هو الآلية الرئيسية المشاركة في الصحه الايضيه. تهدف هذه الدراسه إلي دراسة العلاقه المتشابكه بين حالة فيتامين د وتوازن الحديد في متلازمة التمثيل الغذائي الناجم عن إتباع نظام غذائي عالي الدهون وعالي الفركتوز في الجرذان .كانت المجموعات التجريبيه علي النحو التالي G1 التحكم السلبي ، G2التحكم الموجب ، G3 و G4(نظام غذائي متوازن ومدعم بفيتامين د 12و24 ميكروجرام / كجم من وزن الجسم علي التوالي مرتين في الاسبوع ). G5 و G6(نظام غذائي عالي الدهون و عالي الفركتوزلومدعم بفيتامين د 12و24 ميكروجرام / كجم من وزن الجسم علي التوالي مرتين في الاسبوع). تم تقييم العديد من العوامل البيوكيميائيه والجزيئيه والنسيجيه في السيرم وانسجة الكبد . أظهرت النتائج أن تناول فيتامين د عدل بشكل كبير توازن الحديد المضطرب الناتج عن النظام الغذائي العالي في الدهون والفركتوز من خلال تنظيم محور الهيبسيدين-الفيروبروتين مما يؤدي إلي تحسن كبير في مستوي الحديد في السيرم ، كما أن تناول فيتامين د يعزز حالة مضادات الاكسده عن طريق تقليل نشاط مستوى الMDA وزيادة نشاط HO-1 في السيرم بالإضافه إلي تنظيم التعبير الجيني لNrf2 . كما أنه يخفف من إرتفاع المؤشرات الحيويه الإلتهابيه في السيرم و مستوي الresistin بينما يزيد بشكل ملحوظ من مستوي الadiponectin في السيرم ، علاوة علي ذلك ، تم تنظيم التعبير الجيني لمستقبلات فيتامين د في أنسجة الكبد وزيادة نسبة فيتامين د في السيرم بشكل ملحوظ مما أدي إلي تحسين مقاومة الانسولين وتقليل نسبة الدهون في السيرم . تظهر النتائج المجهريه وجود إرتشاح دهني بينما بعد تناول فيتامين د حدث تحسن في أنسجة الكبد .

The efficacy of vitamin E in preventing arthrofibrosis after joint replacement.

Arthrofibrosis is a joint disorder characterized by excessive scar formation in the joint tissues. Vitamin E is an antioxidant with potential anti-fibroblastic effect. The aim of this study was to establish an arthrofibrosis rat model after joint replacement and assess the effects of vitamin E supplementation on joint fibrosis. We simulated knee replacement in 16 male Sprague-Dawley rats. We immobilized the surgical leg with a suture in full flexion. The control groups were killed at 2 and 12 weeks (n = 5 per group), and the test group was supplemented daily with vitamin E (0.2 mg/mL) in their drinking water for 12 weeks (n = 6). We performed histological staining to investigate the presence and severity of arthrofibrosis. Immunofluorescent staining and α2-macroglobulin (α2M) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to assess local and systemic inflammation. Static weight bearing (total internal reflection) and range of motion (ROM) were collected for functional assessment. The ROM and weight-bearing symmetry decreased after the procedure and recovered slowly with still significant deficit at the end of the study for both groups. Histological analysis confirmed fibrosis in both lateral and posterior periarticular tissue. Vitamin E supplementation showed a moderate anti-inflammatory effect on the local and systemic levels. The vitamin E group exhibited significant improvement in ROM and weight-bearing symmetry at day 84 compared to the control group. This model is viable for simulating arthrofibrosis after joint replacement. Vitamin E may benefit postsurgical arthrofibrosis, and further studies are needed for dosing requirements.

A Clinical Study on the Efficacy of Vitamin B Supplements in the Treatment of Traumatic Ulceration

A Clinical Study on the Efficacy of Vitamin B Supplements in the Treatment of Traumatic Ulceration

Vitamin D Supplementation and Recurrence of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.

Positional vertigo manifests as a spinning sensation triggered by changes in head position relative to gravity. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is an inner ear disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of positional vertigo. The connection between vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency and the onset and recurrence of BPPV is established. This study aims to assess vitamin D as a recurring factor in BPPV and the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in preventing its recurrence. A comprehensive literature review on the relationship between vitamin D and BPPV recurrence was conducted, searching PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and article reference lists for studies published from 2020 to 2023. A total of 79 articles were initially identified through the search, with 12 of them being utilized in the study. Recurrence rates for BPPV varied from 13.7% to 23% for studies with follow-up less than 1 year and 13.3% to 65% for studies with follow-up equal to or exceeding 2 years. Risk factors for BPPV recurrence include advanced age, female sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, osteoporosis, and vitamin D deficiency. While earlier studies did not establish a link between low vitamin D levels and initial BPPV occurrence, they did associate recurrent episodes with low vitamin D levels. Recent research indicates that vitamin D supplementation in BPPV patients with deficiency or insufficiency decreases both the numbers of relapsing patients and relapses per patient. To validate these findings across diverse populations, further randomized controlled studies with larger cohorts and extended follow-up durations are essential.

Effect of early vitamin D supplementation on the incidence of preeclampsia in primigravid women: a randomised clinical trial in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo

BackgroundPrevious studies have reported the association between maternal vitamin D deficiency and preeclampsia. However, the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in reducing the occurrence of preeclampsia remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of cholecalciferol supplementation on the incidence of preeclampsia in primigravid women and its related maternal and foetal outcomes.MethodsA single-blinded clinical trial was conducted in fourteen antenatal care health facilities in the North (Goma, Mwesso, Nyiragongo) and South Kivu (Bukavu-Panzi) provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo from March 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. A total of 1300 primigravid women not exceeding 16 weeks of gestation were randomised with a 1:1 ratio to either the supplemented (A) or control (B) group. Each pregnant woman (A) presenting for antenatal care received a single monthly dose of cholecalciferol (60,000 IU) orally for 6 months. The control group received no vitamin D supplementation or placebo. Serum 25(OH)D was measured at recruitment and at 34 weeks of gestation. Outcomes were assessed monthly until delivery.ResultsThe median maternal age was 21 years (14–40), while the median gestational age was 15 weeks (5.4–29.0). A significant reduction in the risk of preeclampsia [RR = 0.36 (0.19–0.69); p = 0.001] and preterm delivery [RR = 0.5 (0.32–0.78); p = 0.002] was observed in the intervention group. An RR of 0.43 [(0.27–0.67); p < 0.001] was found for low birth weight. The RR for caesarean section was 0.63 [(0.52–0.75); p < 0.001]. The APGAR score at the 5th minute (p = 0.021) and the size of the newborn were significantly higher in the supplemented group (p = 0.005).ConclusionA single monthly dose (60,000 IU) of vitamin D supplementation, started in earlypregnancy, significantly reduced the incidence of preeclampsia and its maternal and foetal complications.Trial registrationISRCTN Register with ISRCTN46539495 on 17 November 2020.

Community pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding counselling on vitamins and dietary supplements in Malaysia: A study on complementary medicines

BackgroundThe utilization of vitamins and dietary supplements (DSs) among consumers in Malaysia has seen a notable increase. However, there is limited research available on how pharmacists in Eastern countries manage the provision of these products. ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of community pharmacists in Malaysia regarding the provision of counselling services on vitamins and DSs. The findings will inform education strategies in this area. MethodsA cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted from February to April 2022 using a validated online-based questionnaire. The survey was distributed to community pharmacists across Malaysia through social media channels. t-test and ANOVA test were used for data analysis. ResultsAmong the 260 participants, 73.5% were categorized as having average product knowledge. Key concerns included a lack of knowledge about the indications of new products and when to discontinue their use. Regarding dosing in specific patient groups, 33.5% of pharmacists only occasionally consulted references and primarily relied on product labels. Furthermore, 29% of pharmacists believed it was unnecessary to refer patients to doctors when they experienced ongoing symptoms while taking vitamins or DSs. Interestingly, 44.6% of pharmacists believed there was a correlation between the efficacy of vitamins and their price, often recommending more expensive brands despite similar content. ConclusionThere is an opportunity to enhance the knowledge of pharmacists in Malaysia regarding vitamins and DSs. Education interventions should focus on areas such as dosing for specific patient groups, when to discontinue products, understanding new products, evidence-based efficacy of products for specific conditions, and providing a framework for appropriate referral to support pharmacists in their practice.