Comparison of Vitamin D Label Dosing Recommendations to North American National Guidelines

Abstract

Supplementation with vitamin D has become increasingly popular over the past decade, and numerous organizations have developed recommendations for the appropriate intake of vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements come in a variety of formulations and strengths and vary in their directions for use. This study was designed to compare vitamin D label dosing information with the recommendations in North American guidelines. A systematic search was conducted to identify 62 single-ingredient vitamin D products of which 1000 IU was the most common strength. Assessment of North American guidelines found recommended vitamin D dosing to range from 400 to 1000 IU daily, depending on age. Twenty-four (39%) of the products recommended a maximum dose within the range of 400 to 1000 IU daily. Thirty-eight (61%) and 19 (31%) products recommended maximum doses more than 1000 IU daily and 2000 IU daily, respectively. Labeled dosing recommendations of commercially available vitamin D supplements are largely inconsistent with North American recommendations.

Keywords: bone; calcium; dietary supplement; dosing; guidelines; osteoporosis; recommended dietary allowance; vitamin D.