Ergocalciferol 4,500units/5ml oral solution

BackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is known as an inflammatory illness. Evidence shows that Vitamin D modulates immunologic function and inflammation by affecting various immunological cells. We decided to run a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the relationship between vitamin D supplementation and the outcomes of adult patients suffering from RA.MethodsWe searched electronic databases, using specific search terms in PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science, until May 2024. Clinical studies involving patients with RA were included if they compared the effects of vitamin D supplementation to either a placebo or standard care. The results from the selected studies were presented as weighted mean differences (WMD) along with a 95 % confidence interval (CI).ResultsInclusion criteria have been met by 11 studies and presented as part of this analysis. The results indicate a major influence of vitamin D supplementation on the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS-28) (WMD: -0.83, 95 % CI: -1.38 to -0.28, p-value ConclusionTo improve DAS-28, CRP, ESR, and serum vitamin D in RA patients, vitamin D supplements may be beneficial, although the optimal dosage and length of treatment are still unknown.

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BackgroundChildren with one functional ventricle might receive the Fontan procedure as palliative management to prolong their lives. However, the heart remains functionally univentricular, which may result in disrupted absorption of nutrients, including Vitamin D. Individuals with Fontan circulation have limited physical activity and sun exposure, which might further contribute to Vitamin D deficiency.ObjectiveThis study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency among individuals with Fontan circulation and analyze probable contributing factors to it through meta-regression analysis.MethodsA predetermined search strategy was applied on PubMed, Scopus, Scilit, Web of Science, Europe PMC, and Google Scholar to identify relevant literature as of July 2024. In general, studies reporting the prevalence or incidence of Vitamin D deficiency (ResultsSix studies were included, comprising 255 individuals with the Fontan circulation. The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency was 51% (95% confidence interval: 35%- 67%) with noticeable heterogeneity (I 2 = 84.38%; p-Het P = 0.003) was the main contributor to the heterogeneity.ConclusionVitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among individuals with Fontan palliation, highlighting the need for active monitoring and investigation into the benefits of Vitamin D supplementation.PROSPERO registration: CRD42024574724.

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BackgroundOsteoarthritis is a common chronic disease that affects quality of life and increases public health costs. Knee osteoarthritis is a frequent form, marked by joint degeneration, pain, stiffness, and functional restrictions. Factors such as age, genetics, joint injuries, obesity, and vitamin D deficiency can affect knee osteoarthritis progression. While the exact link between vitamin D and osteoarthritis is still being studied, recent research indicates that low vitamin D levels might influence the articular cartilage's structure and function, potentially accelerating osteoarthritis. This review aims to analyze the last decade of research on vitamin D's role in osteoarthritis.MethodsA systematic review of the literature was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Relevant studies from the last ten years were included to evaluate the association between vitamin D levels and knee osteoarthritis. The inclusion criteria were studies examining the role of vitamin D in cartilage health and osteoarthritis progression and the potential clinical implications for disease management.ResultsThis review identified a variety of studies exploring the connection between vitamin D and osteoarthritis, with mixed findings.ConclusionsThe relationship between vitamin D and knee osteoarthritis remains inconclusive, highlighting the need for further research. An updated evaluation of the literature is crucial for osteoarthritis management strategies and to potentially include vitamin D supplementation in therapeutic protocols.

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ContextVitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in chronic liver disease. Although international societies recommend vitamin D supplementation in cases of proven deficiency, the impact of vitamin D on chronic liver disease remains uncertain.ObjectiveOur aim was to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation in patients with chronic liver disease by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).Data sourcesWe systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library on July 2, 2024.Data extractionOur primary outcomes involved survival, controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), liver stiffness measurement (LSM), and effects on changes in liver enzymes. Secondary outcomes included lipid profile and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), among others. The pooled risk ratio (RR), mean difference (MD), and corresponding 95% CIs were calculated using the random-effects model.Data analysisForty-six RCTs were included, comprising 4084 patients. When we compared the vitamin D group with the control, the RR for overall survival was 1.14 (95% CI, 0.85-1.54; 4 RCTs) at 6 months and 0.99 (95% CI, 0.83-1.17; 4 RCTs) at the 12-month follow-up. Vitamin D supplementation did not result in a lower CAP (MD, -23.50 dB/m; 95% CI, -81.72 to 34.72; 3 RCTs) and LSM (MD, -0.65 kPa; 95% CI, -1.98 to 0.68; 3 RCTs). A significant reduction in HOMA-IR was observed in the vitamin D group (MD, -0.31; 95% CI, -0.62 to -0.01; 15 RCTs). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (MD, -4.98 IU/L; 95% CI, -8.28 to -1.68; 24 RCTs), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (MD, -3.33 IU/L; 95% CI, -6.25 to -0.40; 23 RCTs), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (MD, -5.14 IU/L; -6.40; -3.88; 11 RCTs), triglycerides (MD, -7.59 mg/dL; 95% CI, -15.09 to -0.81), and insulin (MD -0.79 μIU/L; 95% CI, -1.36 to -0.21) were significantly reduced in the patients with vitamin D supplementation.ConclusionOur results showed significantly reduced ALT, AST, GGT, triglycerides, insulin, and HOMA-IR in the vitamin D-supplemented group; however, the effect was modest. In addition, there were no differences in survival, CAP, or LSM. Further RCTs with adequate power are warranted to clarify the results.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO registration No. CRD42022370312.

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It is generally accepted that the maintenance of the health of the musculoskeletal system is highly dependent on vitamin D. However, the relationship between vitamin D levels and the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries is still uncertain. This systematic review aimed to summarize the available information on the association between vitamin D levels and musculoskeletal injuries. Seven electronic databases were searched using Boolean operators to link MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms and free text phrases. This improved the sensitivity and specificity of the search results. Studies investigating the association between vitamin D status and musculoskeletal damage were included. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority of studies reported an increased prevalence amongst individuals with low vitamin D levels and musculoskeletal symptoms or injury. This underlines the important role of vitamin D screening and supplementation. Some studies have associated certain vitamin D metabolites with injury occurrence, suggesting that levels and balance of these metabolites may influence injury risk. However, there have been conflicting results on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on muscle function and exercise-induced muscle injury, with some studies failing to find any significant changes. Consistent evidence has demonstrated the benefits of vitamin D supplementation in reducing the incidence of stress fractures in athletes. One study suggests that genetic variations may influence how vitamin D is related to musculoskeletal health. The reviewed studies revealed a complex relationship between the vitamin D status and musculoskeletal injuries. While low vitamin D levels were consistently observed, the effects of supplementation on various musculoskeletal outcomes varied. These findings emphasize the need for further research to better understand the underlying mechanisms and to develop targeted interventions for specific populations, considering factors such as vitamin D metabolites, supplementation dosage, and genetic variations.

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Vitamin D plays an important role in immune regulation, prompting interest in its potential for preventing tuberculosis. However, clinical findings regarding its protective effects against tuberculosis infection and disease remain inconsistent. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the impact of vitamin D supplementation on the prevention of tuberculosis infection and the progression to active tuberculosis. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases through January 2025. Eligible studies involved participants without active tuberculosis at baseline and reported outcomes related to tuberculosis. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted, and the certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. Six RCTs, involving 15,677 participants, met our inclusion criteria. Compared to placebo, vitamin D supplementation did not significantly reduce the risk of tuberculosis infection (5 RCTs; OR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.79-1.14; p = 0.55) or the development of active tuberculosis (4 RCTs; OR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.56-1.05; p = 0.10). The certainty of evidence was moderate for both outcomes. Subgroup analyses based on baseline vitamin D levels and duration of follow-up yielded consistent results. The incidence of serious adverse events was comparable between the vitamin D and placebo groups (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 0.76-1.38; p = 0.87), and none of the serious events were attributed to vitamin D supplementation. In conclusion, vitamin D supplementation does not significantly reduce the risk of tuberculosis infection or progression to active tuberculosis, although it is safe and well tolerated.

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