The Vitamin D supplementation protocols

Vitamin D deficiency, its prevention, and vitamin replacement are a global challenge. Vitamin D deficiency can be assessed by biomarkers like serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations. Serum 25(OH)D levels below 20ng/mL or below 50 nmol/L define vitamin D deficiency. To correct or manage this deficiency, replacement of the vitamin is done through external sources like diet, sunlight, or supplementation with oral dosage forms or intramuscular injections of vitamin D. Vitamin D supplementation practices vary worldwide. To prevent vitamin D toxicity and Vitamin D deficiency, it is essential to review and understand the evidence-based recommendations for its replacement. Different societies and organizations recommend different doses of vitamin D based on many factors, like the health of the individual, demographics, regional/ geographical factors, and lifestyle. As literature on evidences of vitamin D beneficial effects grew, the vitamin D supplementation practices became common even in low-middle-income and low-income countries. Clinicians should be aware of the importance of serum 25(OH)D levels in the management of D deficiency, should know how long treatment should be continued, and be aware of D toxicity. The overall goal of this chapter is to deliver guidance on evidence-based vitamin D supplementation protocols to manage the deficiency effectively and improve patient outcomes.