Very high-dose ergocalciferol is effective for correcting vitamin D deficiency in children and young adults with cystic fibrosis

AbstractApproximately 10–80% of patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) have vitamin D deficiency. Obtaining therapeutic vitamin D levels has been a challenge for CF care providers using current recommended high-dose oral ergocalciferol (400,000 IU over 2 months). The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a 2-week, very high dose ergocalciferol (700,000 IU over 14 days) repletion strategy in children and young adults with CF.As part of a quality improvement initiative, a prospective cohort study was performed from January through May 2007. Phase I included identifying individuals with CF who were subtherapeutic in 25-OH D. In phase II, 50,000 IU of ergocalciferol was prescribed for a 14 day term and administered daily. During phase III, a post treatment 25-OH D level was obtained to determine improvement. Baseline demographics and clinical characteristics were obtained at study entry. Stratification of the post 25-OHD levels was defined.Eighteen individuals with CF participated in the study. The mean age was 17±5 years (range 6–25 years). One hundred percent were pancreatic insufficient and required pancreatic enzyme replacement. All 18 had 25-OHD levels less than 30 ng/mL pre-treatment.Seventeen of the 18 (94%) participants became therapeutic in the 2-week interval. No patients had values considered high abnormal (100–150 ng/mL) or toxic (>150 ng/mL). Mean change was noted at an increase of 37.3±22 ng/mL in the 2-week period (p