Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient that helps regulate the levels of calcium in your body. As an adult, you should receive between 5 and 15 micrograms of vitamin D each day, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. If your body is deficient in vitamin D, your doctor may recommend treatment with a vitamin D supplement. Discuss the side effects of vitamin D treatment with your physician before you begin taking this supplement.
Hypercalcemia
Prolonged, excessive or improper use of vitamin D supplements may result in a dramatic increase in the levels of calcium in your body. This side effect of vitamin D treatment, called hypercalcemia, may cause a number of symptoms, including increased thirst or urination, headache, weakness, bone or muscle pain, itchy skin, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue or a metallic taste in your mouth. Persistently high calcium levels in your body may also cause kidney damage. Seek care from your primary medical care provider as soon as possible if you develop any of these side effects while taking vitamin D supplements.
Nausea or Vomiting
Vitamin D treatments may irritate your stomach or digestive tract. Consequently, you may experience stomach-related side effects such as nausea or vomiting. Stomach discomfort may also cause appetite loss, which may contribute to weight loss.
Constipation or Diarrhea
You may develop changes in your normal bowel movements as a side effect of vitamin D treatment, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Difficult or absent bowel movements, also called constipation, may contribute to abdominal pain or bloating. Alternatively, diarrhea may cause frequent, loose bowel movements accompanied by abdominal cramping.
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