Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and in the function of calcium in the body, according to Drugs.com. Doses as high as 500,000 IUs may be needed to treat certain diseases, such as rickets, notes MayoClinic.com. Although beneficial, you should be aware of the possible side effects that may occur from high doses.
Mental Status Changes
Mental status changes are a side effect of taking large doses of vitamin D. These changes include thinking problems, changes in behavior and a constant feeling of irritability, according to Drugs.com. They may affect how you perform at work or how you relate to friends and family members. Furthermore, cloudy thinking may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Therefore, if you are experiencing mental status changes, you should immediately stop taking 500,000 IUs of vitamin D and alert your doctor.
Bone Loss
Ingesting high doses of vitamin D may lead to bone loss, notes MayoClinic.com. High doses can result in hypercalcemia, which is a result of calcium being lost from bone. Excessive bone loss can result in symptoms of osteoporosis, which includes frequent fractures of bone. To prevent complications of hypercalcemia, you should have your blood calcium levels checked regularly. If blood calcium levels are too high, the dose of vitamin D should be decreased.
Decreased Kidney Function
Long-term intake of 500,000 IUs of vitamin D may alter kidney function, states MayoClinic.com. Kidney function is altered because high levels of blood calcium result in increased calcium deposits in the kidneys, which can cause kidney stones. You may notice flank pain, blood in your urine or frequent urination. If left untreated, too much calcium can deposit in the kidney and ultimately result in kidney failure. Treatment of decreased kidney function includes stopping the intake of vitamin D and consulting a physician to help you lower calcium levels.
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