Efficacy and safety of a single monthly dose of cholecalciferol in healthy school children.
BACKGROUND
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a single monthly dose of cholecalciferol in healthy school children.


METHODS
A total of 118 children of class VI of a residential school were selected to receive vitamin D supplementation in the form of oral cholecalciferol 60,000 IU monthly. Serum calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels were estimated at 0 and 12 months. The proportion of subjects achieving vitamin D sufficiency was assessed.


RESULTS
The mean 25OHD levels increased significantly from 12.04±5.27 ng/mL at baseline to 32.6±7.05 ng/mL after 12 months of supplementation (p<0.001). None developed hypercalcemia.


CONCLUSIONS
Vitamin D supplementation in the doses of 60,000 IU monthly is a reasonable, safe and cost-effective regimen for children to attain and maintain vitamin D sufficiency.
Mohammad Shafi
MS
Kuchay
Ganesh Sudhakar
GS
Jevalikar
Ambrish
A
Mithal
Sunil Kumar
SK
Mishra
Navin
N
Dang
D000284:Administration, Oral; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002648:Child; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis; D012449:Safety; D014807:Vitamin D / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives*; D014808:Vitamin D Deficiency / Q000517:prevention & control*
D014807:Vitamin D; C104450:25-hydroxyvitamin D