Prevalence of Iatrogenic Vitamin D Toxicity Among the Saudi Population of Vitamin D Users Due to Overcorrection

Abstract

BackgroundDespite abundant sunlight exposure, vitamin D deficiency remains a major challenge in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the widespread use of vitamin D supplements has prompted concerns about toxicity, which although rare, can have severe health consequences. ObjectiveThe objective of this cross-sectional study was to analyze the prevalence and associated factors of iatrogenic vitamin D toxicity among the Saudi population of vitamin D users due to overcorrection. MethodsAn online questionnaire was used to collect data from 1,677 participants across all regions of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire included responses on the prescription, duration of vitamin D intake, dosage, frequency, history of vitamin D toxicity, symptom onset, and duration. ResultsOne thousand six hundred and seventy-seven responses were included across all regions of Saudi Arabia. A majority of participants were female (66.7%) and around half were aged 18-25 years. A history of vitamin D use was reported by 63.8% of participants, and 48% were still using vitamin D supplements. Most participants (79.3%) consulted a physician, and 84.8% had taken a vitamin D test before using the supplement. Commonly reported motives for taking vitamin D included vitamin D deficiency (72.1%), lack of sun exposure (26.1%), and hair loss (20.6%). Symptoms of overdose were reported by 6.6% of participants, with 3.3% having an overdose and 2.1% experiencing both overdose and symptoms. ConclusionThis study showed that although a large portion of the Saudi population is taking vitamin D supplements, the prevalence of vitamin D toxicity is relatively low. However, this prevalence should not be ignored, and further research is needed to understand the factors contributing to vitamin D toxicity in order to minimize its occurrence.

Physiology of Vitamin D—Focusing on Disease Prevention

“…Toxicity may occur when serum 25(OH)D concentration exceeds 150 ng/mL [ 49 , 56 , 227 ]. Most reported cases were due to mistaken or inappropriate doses taken for prolonged periods [ 228 , 229 , 230 , 231 , 232 , 233 , 234 ]. Signs and symptoms of vitamin D toxicity are primarily related to elevated blood-ionized calcium levels and hypercalciuria.…”