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High dose Vitamin D continuation with normal levels
I have been on Vitamin D for a couple of years (50,000 once a week), ever since my osteo diagnosis in 2024. In March 2024 my level was 23; July of 2024 after a couple months of prescription D it was up to 48 and has stayed there (50 most recently). I am experiencing constipation from I believe the calcium (1200, plus whatever calcium I get from food) in combo with the D. My gastro doc (IBS for 20+ years) thinks maybe, he said try Miralax. Would rather fix the cause of the problem than add a laxative; what if it works too well?!? I guess my question is do any of you take vitamin D2 prescription strength with no end in sight, even if D levels are around 50? And what about D3 (seems like a better choice). I asked (email) my endo's office about getting off prescription D and the answer was that my chart said to take it (not the question I asked!).
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I use D3 and supplement about 3000 IU daily. I spread it out between breakfast and lunch. I also take magnesium supplements for migraines which can have a laxative effect. My Vit D levels from bloodwork are in the 60's.
Many years ago my PCP neglected to order a vitamin D level. When requested, the D was low and he prescribed 50,000 units but for a limited period of time, perhaps a month or so. My D increased to a normal range at completion and I continued with OTC supplements which included D with calcium (osteopenia at the time).
Just experiment. Try taking 3000 IU D3 for six months, and then test your level. Is it around the same? Higher? Lower? You can manage this without a prescription.
Totally get why you’re questioning this staying on high-dose vitamin D2 long-term after your levels are normal isn’t always standard. Usually 50,000 IU weekly is for fixing a deficiency (like your 23), and once levels are in a good range (30–50ish), people are switched to a maintenance dose, often daily vitamin D3. Some docs do keep people on it longer, but there’s usually a specific reason. Your level (~50) is already solid, so it’s a fair question to ask why you’re still on weekly high dose instead of maintenance.
Hello @jozer, You took the correct approach in reaching out to your provider for some insight. It is unfortunate you were unable to get a response you felt that addressed your concerns. It is not recommended to alter your prescriptions or make changes to dosages without the guidance of your provider.
Are you able to contact your provider again with your specific concerns and the symptoms you are experiencing? At the very least, could you inform them you are considering making changes and confirm those changes are OK to try?
Part of the problem with D2 is that it doesn’t always maintain a stable level of Vitamin D in the blood. D3 is much better at that! It’s really your choice which on you take or you can take none at all! I had a prescription for D2 and never filled it. Just kept taking my D3!