Over-the-counter and compounded vitamin D: is potency what we expect?

doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.3812

Paper

Over-the-counter and compounded vitamin D: is potency what we expect?

Published Apr 8, 2013 · E. Leblanc, N. Perrin, Jeffery D Johnson

JAMA internal medicine

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Abstract

B ecause vitamin D insufficiency can be harmful to health, supplementation is often prescribed. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate vitamin D supplements, so potency may not be well evaluated. In a recent trial examining vitamin D in menopausal women, we found that compounded vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplements varied significantly in potency. Only one-third of our compounded study pills met US Pharmacopeial (USP) Convention standards, which require that compounded pills contain 90% to 110% of the active ingredient. This variability in compounded cholecalciferol pills led us to additionally investigate over-the-counter (OTC) cholecalciferol pills, in which we also found variability.

Study Snapshot

Key takeawayCompounded vitamin D3 supplements and over-the-counter cholecalciferol pills show significant variability in potency, suggesting that their potency may not be as reliable as expected.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

Over-the-counter and compounded vitamin D: is potency what we expect?

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