Megadoses vitamine D: progressieve geneeskunde?

– Although the risk of vitamin intoxication is well recognised, massive doses of these preparations continue to be prescribed, especially in the so-called ‘alternative’ medical sector.

We describe a patient with hypervitaminosis D due to administration of megadoses of vitamin D in the absence of an obvious indication. Mode of action and symptoms of vitamin D intoxication are discussed. It is emphasized that vitamin preparations should only be used when strictly indicated and that close clinical and biochemical supervision is necessary.