Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin D (ergocalciferol)
For the health condition: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin D (ergocalciferol, or vitamin D2) has been investigated for its potential role in supporting or treating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The rationale stems primarily from observations that vitamin D deficiency is common in COPD patients and that low vitamin D levels are associated with increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, worse lung function, and more frequent exacerbations. Vitamin D is thought to modulate immune responses and inflammation, which are central to COPD pathogenesis.

A number of observational studies have found correlations between low vitamin D status and worse COPD outcomes. However, interventional studies using vitamin D supplementation (including ergocalciferol) have shown mixed results. Some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) report that supplementation can reduce the rate of exacerbations, particularly in patients who are severely deficient at baseline, while others have found no significant benefit for lung function, symptoms, or exacerbation frequency in unselected COPD populations.

Current guidelines (such as GOLD) do not recommend routine vitamin D supplementation for all COPD patients, but suggest consideration in those with confirmed deficiency. The evidence base is limited by study heterogeneity, small sample sizes, and variation in dosing regimens. Overall, while there is some scientific rationale and partial evidence—especially for deficient individuals—the strength of evidence supporting ergocalciferol use for general COPD management is modest.

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