Vitamin D may slow multiple sclerosis progression, study finds

A new clinical trial has found that high doses of vitamin D may help slow the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). This is the first study to show these potential benefits, but more research is needed to confirm the results. The study focused on high doses of vitamin D taken under medical supervision. Generally, excessive vitamin D can be harmful, but the trial monitored patients closely to ensure their safety. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to various symptoms including muscle weakness and problems with vision and memory. There is currently no cure for MS, and existing treatments can have significant side effects. Research has linked low vitamin D levels to an increased risk of MS due to its role in reducing inflammation. In the trial, 303 patients with early signs of MS, known as clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), participated. CIS can lead to full MS in around 85% of cases. These patients had not yet started any MS treatments, which allowed researchers to better assess the effects of vitamin D. Participants were randomly assigned to take a high dose of vitamin D or a placebo. Disease activity was observed in 60% of those taking vitamin D, compared to 74% in the placebo group. Those taking vitamin D also experienced symptoms later than the others, suggesting the supplement may slow disease progression. Experts view this research as significant. Many doctors already recommend vitamin D supplementation for MS patients. While standard advice is to take between 4,000 and 5,000 international units a day, the trial used a much higher dose. Fortunately, none of the vitamin D group developed hypercalcemia, a condition caused by too much calcium in the body. Despite these promising findings, researchers stress that more studies are necessary to validate the results. The goal is to offer more treatment options for patients who may not currently have access to other MS medications.