Relationship: Muscular Dystrophy and vitamin D

Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin D
For the health condition: Muscular Dystrophy

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

Vitamin D is used in the management of muscular dystrophy primarily due to its critical role in maintaining bone health and muscle function. Scientific studies indicate that individuals with muscular dystrophy, particularly Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), are at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency. This is partly due to reduced mobility and limited sun exposure, which can worsen bone fragility and increase fracture risk. Furthermore, corticosteroids, commonly prescribed to slow muscle degeneration in DMD, can negatively affect bone metabolism, compounding the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

While there is robust evidence that vitamin D supplementation prevents and treats osteoporosis in the general population and in those with neuromuscular diseases, direct evidence that vitamin D supplementation improves muscle strength, slows disease progression, or provides specific therapeutic benefits in muscular dystrophy is limited. Most clinical guidelines recommend monitoring and correcting vitamin D deficiency in muscular dystrophy patients to support skeletal health and reduce fracture risk, rather than for direct effects on muscle pathology.

In summary, the use of vitamin D in muscular dystrophy is scientifically justified for bone health support and fracture prevention, which are important aspects of managing the disease. However, strong evidence for direct benefits on muscle function or disease progression is lacking, resulting in a moderate evidence rating.

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Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin D
For the health condition: Muscular Dystrophy

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Other ingredients used for Muscular Dystrophy

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Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin DFor the health condition: Muscular Dystrophy

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Muscular Dystrophy

Other health conditions supported by vitamin D

Products containing vitamin D

Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin D
For the health condition: Muscular Dystrophy