Vitamin D treatments can include high dosage supplements, ultraviolet light therapies, and topical creams. These treatments are used to treat everything from anxiety to various skin conditions and even cancer. Most involve the use of high concentrations of vitamin D to treat a particular condition or in those who are deficient.
One of the most common types of vitamin D treatments requires the use of a high dosage to help those who are deficient. This can be in oral or intravenous form, depending on what problem is being treated. Studies have been done to show lower mortality rates in those who have received very high doses of vitamin D treatments before undergoing certain procedures. Patients should always consult a doctor before taking high doses of any vitamin or supplement.
Sometimes ultraviolet light is used to help treat conditions such as cancer. This is generally performed using equipment that exposes the blood or the entire body to rays of ultra violet (UV) light, primarily UVB rays, which do not cause as much damage to the skin. The body naturally produces vitamin D when exposed to UV rays, so this leads to more production as well as other health benefits since UV rays have been shown to act as a treatment against cancer.
Certain skin conditions can also be alleviated with vitamin D treatments. Various types of creams and ointments contain vitamin D in their formulas. They are used to treat psoriasis and other issues which can cause skin inflammation and itching, and this must be given by a doctor in most cases.
Lower dose vitamin D treatments can also be used by patients by taking an over the counter supplement or eating many foods which are high in the vitamin. This is generally most effective at preventing certain conditions, such as osteoporosis and cancer. Sometimes higher than recommended daily dosages can be taken orally, although they should be broken up into several smaller doses over the course of the day to ensure that it is properly absorbed. Taking additional vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, and vitamin A, may also help vitamin D absorb more easily.
Side effects of vitamin D treatments can include constipation, anxiety, heart palpitations, and insomnia. These are rare and are often the sign of a magnesium deficiency because magnesium is used in the production and processing of vitamin D. These can be prevented or alleviated, in many cases, by taking a magnesium supplement in conjunction with vitamin D.