Side Effects of High Dosage of Vitamin D-3

Vitamin D helps facilitate calcium absorption in your body. Without adequate amounts of vitamin D, your bones may begin to become brittle, thin or painful. Taking high doses of vitamin D-3, a type of vitamin D supplement, may help increase the amount of this nutrient in your body; however, high doses of vitamin D-3 may also cause side effects if this supplement is taken improperly.

Frequent Urination

While you are receiving treatment with high doses of vitamin D-3, you may need to urinate more often than usual, the Australian Department of Health reports. Frequent urination may be bothersome and may cause you to wake repeatedly during the night. You may also notice that you void a larger volume of urine than normal during treatment with this supplement. If you experience pain during urination or unusual weight loss, consult your medical provider. Such side effects may indicate that you have an alternate medical problem, such as a bladder infection or high blood sugar.

Chest Pain or Breathing Problems

Large doses of vitamin D-3 may cause breathing problems, such as shortness of breath. You may notice that you have difficulty catching your breath while performing normal physical activities, such as walking up a flight of stairs or jogging. You may also develop mild to moderate chest pain following treatment with this vitamin D supplement. These side effects may also be signs of a heart attack, and you should seek immediate medical care if these issues arise.

Mental or Mood Changes

Unusual mental or mood changes may develop as side effects of vitamin D-3 treatment. You may have difficulty thinking clearly or feel confused while you are at home, work or school. Abnormal episodes of irritability may also occur, Drugs.com warns, which can affect your relationships with other people. If these mental or mood changes increase in severity or persist, contact your doctor for further evaluation and care.

Overdose

Prolonged treatment with high doses of vitamin D-3 may lead to a vitamin D overdose. Excessive amounts of vitamin D-3 in your body may significantly increase the amount of calcium in your blood. High calcium levels -- a condition called hypercalcemia -- may cause severe side effects, such as heart rate abnormalities, fatigue, weakness, weight loss, increased thirst and upset stomach. Seek prompt care from your physician if you exhibit any of these side effects while receiving high doses of vitamin D-3.

References

Article reviewed by Leah Ann Crussell Last updated on: Nov 18, 2010

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