Vitamin D 5,000 IU by Ortho Molecular Products

Adults whose Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy is low or low-normal often need vitamin D3 5000 IU for a period of repletion. It’s a good fit if you get little sun, have darker skin, live at northern latitudes, work indoors, or are older. Higher body weight, fat malabsorption (including after bariatric surgery), and long-term steroids or certain seizure medicines raise requirements. If your level is already adequate, this is usually more than a maintenance dose.

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is the form your skin makes from sunlight and is better at raising levels than D2 (ergocalciferol). Your liver and kidneys convert D3 into the hormone that boosts calcium absorption and keeps parathyroid hormone (the signal that pulls calcium from bone) in check, supporting bone turnover. Evidence for infection prevention is mixed; large trials haven’t shown broad protection, though those with low levels sometimes see modest benefits.

Take one capsule daily with a meal that contains fat for better absorption; time of day doesn’t matter. Expect Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy to rise within 4 to 12 weeks, then retest to adjust. Many people step down to a lower maintenance dose once replete. Magnesium status matters because it’s used to activate vitamin D, so ensure your dietary intake is solid before assuming you’re a "non-responder."

Vitamin D3 raises blood calcium. Skip high doses if you’ve had high calcium, recurrent kidney stones, sarcoidosis, or other granulomatous disease, unless managed by a clinician. Thiazide diuretics (for blood pressure) increase calcium, so combine with caution. Orlistat and bile acid binders reduce absorption—separate by several hours. Long-term steroids and some antiepileptics increase vitamin D needs. Pregnancy and nursing: use only with testing and clinician guidance.