An overdose of vitamin D can lead to kidney damage

An unusual case study reported by clinicians and researchers at the University of Toronto and the University Health Network has shown how excessive amounts of vitamin D can lead to kidney failure.

A naturopath prescribed a high dose of vitamin D to a 54-year-old man from Canada. The patient could not find the brand of medicine prescribed by the alternative practitioner and chose a different one, but one that had a higher vitamin D concentration. Over the course of two years, he took up to 12 drops or 12,000 international units of vitamin D daily. And this is way above thatthe recommended daily dosefrom 400 to 1,000 IU. This has resulted in very high calcium levels in the blood, causing significant kidney damage. As a result, the patient's kidney function dropped to 34 percent.

More is not always better

“Patients should recognize that vitamin D is a medication and may be associated with risks and side effects, especially when taken in large amounts,” says Dr. Bourne Auguste, the lead author of the paper.

According to “Osteoporosis Canada,” amounts of vitamin D up to 2,000 units per day are harmless. They even recommend 800 to 2,000 units per day for older people and those with high blood pressureOsteoporoserisiko.

What are the symptoms of an overdose?

Vitamin D toxicity is uncommon and usually occurs in people who take high-dose supplements for a very long time without monitoring blood levels. TheSymptoms of vitamin D toxicitycan vary and remain undetected for a long time, which can delay diagnosis. Symptoms include:

High blood pressure
fatigue
Frequent urination
Increased calcium levels in the blood
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
confusion

The case study was published in the issue ofCanadian Medical Association Journaldescribed in detail.