[What happens if you deliberately overdose on vitamin D?].

The use of dietary supplements is a common practice among the Swiss population, with approximately 30% of individuals regularly taking them. However, it is interesting to note that only about 22% of these supplement users have a legitimate medical reason for doing so. This discrepancy highlights the potential risks associated with self-medication and the lack of regulation in the supplement industry. Many individuals may be taking dietary supplements without proper medical guidance, which can lead to adverse health consequences. The case study presented in the text illustrates this point, as it involves a couple who started taking high-dose vitamin D supplements without proper medical supervision. The couple in question consisted of a woman with multiple sclerosis and her partner, who has a rare metabolic disorder. Due to a perceived lack of conventional treatment options, they decided to start taking high-dose vitamin D supplements. The outcome of this decision was vastly different for each individual. The man developed a subclinical vitamin D intoxication, which is a mild and often asymptomatic condition. In contrast, the woman experienced a severe vitamin-D-induced hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by elevated calcium levels in the blood, which required hospitalization. This case highlights the importance of medical guidance and monitoring when taking dietary supplements, particularly in high doses. It also underscores the potential risks associated with self-medication and the need for individuals to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen. Additionally, it raises questions about the regulation of the supplement industry and the need for stricter guidelines to ensure the safe use of dietary supplements. Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40433721/