Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin D2
For the health condition: Osteoporosis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is one of the two main forms of vitamin D used in supplementation, the other being vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Both forms are effective at raising serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, which is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health.

Osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone mass and increased fracture risk. Vitamin D deficiency is a well-established risk factor for osteoporosis because it leads to impaired calcium absorption and secondary hyperparathyroidism, which accelerates bone loss. Supplementation with vitamin D (either D2 or D3) is recommended in individuals at risk of deficiency as part of osteoporosis prevention and management, typically in combination with calcium.

However, while vitamin D supplementation is scientifically validated for maintaining bone health and preventing deficiency-related bone disease (such as osteomalacia), the evidence for vitamin D2 specifically reducing fracture risk or significantly improving bone mineral density in established osteoporosis (especially compared to vitamin D3) is limited. Studies indicate that vitamin D3 may be somewhat more effective at raising and sustaining serum vitamin D levels, but both forms are used clinically. Major guidelines (e.g., Endocrine Society, NOF) accept either D2 or D3 for vitamin D supplementation.

In summary, the use of vitamin D2 for osteoporosis is justified by scientific evidence, mainly for prevention and correction of deficiency, but the evidence for direct anti-fracture efficacy is modest, and D3 may be preferred when available.

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