Transient effectiveness of vitamin D2 therapy in pediatric cystic fibrosis patients

Abstract

Background: The effectiveness of current treatment recommendations for vitamin D insufficiency in children with CF is unknown. Therefore, we assessed the effectiveness of vitamin D(2) 50,000 IU once daily for 28 days for vitamin D insufficiency.

Methods: Retrospective chart review of pediatric CF patients from 2006-2008. Vitamin D(2) 50,000 IU daily for 28 days was given to patients with 25-OHD <30 ng/mL and repeat 25-OHD levels were obtained after completion of therapy.

Results: One hundred forty-seven levels from 97 individuals were assessed. Success of treatment was 54% (n=80/147). Seventeen of 39 patients (43%) followed for an additional 6-18 months were able to maintain levels of >or=30 ng/mL.

Conclusions: Vitamin D(2) 50,000 IU daily for 28 days was effective in correcting vitamin D insufficiency in approximately 50% of subjects. However, almost half of successfully treated patients were unable to maintain normal 25-OHD levels >6 months after completion of therapy, implying that this effect is transient.