Vitamin D supplementation improves well-being in patients with frequent respiratory tract infections: a post hoc analysis of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Peter Bergman, Anna-Carin Norlin, Susanne Hansen, Linda Björkhem-Bergman, Peter Bergman, Anna-Carin Norlin, Susanne Hansen, Linda Björkhem-Bergman

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that vitamin D supplementation improves well-being in patients with frequent respiratory tract infections (RTIs). We performed a post hoc analysis of a randomized, placebo-controlled and double-blind study in which patients with frequent RTIs were randomized to placebo or vitamin D (4000 IE/day for 1 year, n = 124). At the last visit of the study, patients were asked to perform a general assessment of their well-being during the study.

Results: The majority of patients, both placebo- and vitamin D treated, stated that they had felt 'better' during the study; 52% in the placebo group and 70% in the vitamin D group, relative risk 1.3 (95% CI 1.0-1.8; p = 0.06, Fisher's exact test). Statement of better well-being was associated with an increase in 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels (p < 0.001). In contrast, worse well-being was associated with unchanged 25-OHD levels. Notably, a 25-OHD level above 100 nmol/L at the study end was associated with a higher chance of having a better well-being (p < 0.01). Four patients on anti-depressive treatment could terminate their antidepressant medication during the study. These patients had a significant increase in 25-OHD levels from low levels at study-start.

Conclusion: Vitamin D supplementation to patients with frequent RTIs might be beneficial, not only for infections, but also for their general well-being. However, given the post hoc design of this study, these findings need to be confirmed in additional clinical trials before firm conclusions can be drawn.

Trial registration: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01131858), registered March 22, 2010.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Well-being in patients with immunodeficiency disorders before and after 1 year of supplementation with vitamin D. In patients with a better well-being during the study (n = 72) there was an average increase in 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels (25-OHvitD) (p ns not significant)
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Well-being in patients with immunodeficiency disorders taking antidepressants, before and after a 1 year vitamin D study. In patients with a better well-being during the study (n = 10) there was an average increase in 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHvitD) levels (p red lines). In patients stating no difference (n = 6) or worse well-being (n = 6) there was no change in average 25-OHvitD levels (p = not significant)

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