 Posted 19/06/2012 10:24:43
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Hi, i am osteopenic and just had my vitamin D levels done - they have come back at 35. My Gp told me to take high supplements for a month and then reduce to recommended levels, however, she didn't think that they needed to do a repeat bloodtest.
1) I have read that I can take up to a 1000 IU (Europeann levels) and will do so for a month and then back down to 400 IU I guess. Is this right?
2) should I demand a bloodtest ina month? - I cant see the guidance on NICE to quote - this usually helps me get what i need.
any advice would be welcome about whether I am doing this all ok.
I have very sensitive skin and never get sun on my skin without high SPF factor and I do not eat fish - the vitamin D levels therefore came as no surprise.
many thanks
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Posted 20/06/2012 14:42:33
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| Dear HayleyT Thanks for your post.
You asked what dose of vitamin D supplementation would be appropriate. Currently there are no set guidelines, so this is usually specifically tailored to the individual person’s needs. Your vitamin D level puts you in the 'insufficient' category rather than being seriously deficient. The dose and duration of vitamin D treatment can vary widely depending on local policy and the individuals’ requirements.
Your doctor should be guiding you on exactly how much he or she wants you to take. The amounts you suggest do fall within a safe level, but your doctor may wish you to take a higher dose, and indeed can prescribe this for you. Therefore it would seem sensible to have a further discussion with the doctor to clarify this. You also asked about repeat blood tests to monitor your progress. Again there are no set guidelines, and many people won’t need monitoring, but it would seem that if necessary a test after six months might be most valuable as blood levels change gradually.
Best wishesHelpline Nurses
National Osteoporosis Society
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