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Hypervitaminosis D - All Information

Alternative Names

Vitamin D toxicity

Definition of Hypervitaminosis D:

Hypervitaminosis D is a condition that occurs after taking excessive doses of vitamin D.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

An excess of vitamin D causes abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood, which can eventually severely damage the bones, soft tissues, and kidneys. It is almost always caused by forms of vitamin D that require a doctor's prescription.

Signs and tests:

Tests to confirm the diagnosis:

Treatment:

Stop taking vitamin D. Consult your physician. In severe cases, other treatment may be necessary.

Expectations (prognosis):

Recovery is expected.

Complications:

  • Dehydration
  • Hypercalcemia
  • Kidney damage
  • Kidney stones

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if:

  • You or your child shows symptoms of hypervitaminosis D and has been taking more vitamin D than the recommended daily allowance
  • You or your child shows symptoms and has been taking a prescription form of vitamin D

Prevention:

To prevent this condition, pay careful attention to the correct vitamin D dose.

  • Reviewed last on: 11/23/2009
  • Ari S. Eckman, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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