Vitamin D Council

Researchers recently conducted a randomized controlled trial assessing the effectiveness and practicality of oral vitamin D supplements compared to intramuscular vitamin D supplement injections in the treatment of vitamin D deficiency.

Researchers in Iran randomized 92 patients with vitamin D deficiency (

The researchers found that both treatment regimens significantly increased vitamin D blood levels. Vitamin D status at 3 months was significantly higher in oral than in the injection group, with levels at 36 and 23.5 ng/ml respectively (p=0.03). At 6 months, levels were similar (20.8 and 24.8 ng/ml respectively).

The researchers conclude that both regimens are safe, effective, and practical, “Although we revealed superiority of oral route, at least at early short time, the way of treatment may depend on the patient's choice, compliance and availability of various forms of the drug in any regions.”

Source

Zabihiyeganeh M, Jahed A, Nojomi M. Treatment of hypovitaminosis D with pharmacologic doses of cholecalciferol, oral vs intramuscular; an open labeled RCT. Clinical Endocrinology. January 2013.