Vitamin D plays an essential role in maintaining calcium and phosphorus balance in the body, which is necessary for strong bones and healthy teeth. It also supports important body functions such as metabolism, immune response, and overall physiological balance. Although vitamin D is highly beneficial, excessive intake can lead to a serious condition known as vitamin D toxicity or hypervitaminosis D. This condition mainly occurs when high-dose vitamin D supplements are taken for a long period without proper medical supervision. Vitamin D toxicity causes an increase in calcium levels in the blood, a condition called hypercalcemia. Elevated calcium levels can damage sensitive organs such as the kidneys, heart, liver, and nervous system. Common early symptoms include weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and fatigue. In severe cases, it may lead to kidney stones, arrhythmias, confusion, and other life-threatening complications. In children, serious conditions such as pancreatitis and severe renal damage may also occur. Diagnosis is usually confirmed when blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D rise above 150 ng/mL along with increased serum calcium levels. The first step in treatment is stopping vitamin D and calcium supplements immediately. Proper hydration is important to help remove excess calcium from the body, and in severe cases, medicines may be required to lower calcium levels. As the use of supplements continues to increase, proper dosing guidelines, accurate labeling, and patient awareness have become very important. Both healthcare professionals and patients should understand the risks of excessive supplementation. Vitamin D is necessary for health, but it should always be taken in the correct amount. Safe use, regular monitoring, and medical guidance are the best ways to prevent vitamin D toxicity and its long-term complications.
Sharma* et al. (Mon,) studied this question.