Does Vitamin D3 Have Side Effects?

Does Vitamin D3 Have Side Effects?
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Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is one of the more widely prescribed D vitamins used to help your body make efficient use of calcium. A deficiency in vitamin D3 can weaken your bones and teeth. You may use this type of vitamin D as a separate supplement or as part of a multivitamin. The use of cholecalciferol may cause you to experience side effects. As with any supplement, consult a medical professional before using vitamin D3.

Chest Pain

Taking vitamin D3 may cause you to experience pain in your chest as a serious side effect, Drugs.com reports. Chest pain may indicate cardiovascular or respiratory problems -- both of which can cause serious health concerns. Discontinue taking vitamin D3 and seek immediate emergency medical treatment if you experience chest pain.

Breathing Problems

When you use a vitamin D3 supplement, you may find it difficult to breathe deeply and fully. You may become short of breath as a serious side effect. Such breathing problems may be life-threatening, so get to your doctor or local emergency room immediately. Stop your use of the vitamin at least until your physician can evaluate the cause for your breathing difficulties.

Mental Difficulties

Cholecalciferol may cause you difficulty in your normal mental processes. The vitamin D3 supplement may cause you to act or behave differently than you normally do, Drugs.com warns. It may cause feelings of irritability and may interrupt your ability to think clearly. Any such mental difficulties classify as serious side effects. You will need immediate medical advice from your physician and possibly a trip to the emergency room if the mental problems manifest in severe form.

Urination Problems

Cholecalciferol, if used in high amounts, may cause you to urinate more frequently than normal, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This may cause the secondary problems of extreme thirst and dehydration.

References

Article reviewed by Leah Ann Crussell Last updated on: Feb 17, 2011

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