EFFECTS OF CALCIFEDIOL AND CHOLECALCIFEROL ON 25-HYDROXY-VITAMIN D3 LEVELS, MUSCLE STRENGTH, AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE IN POST-MENOPAUSAL WOMEN

Introduction/Background Post-menopausal women generally present reduced serum levels of vitamin D, reduced VDR expression in skeletal muscle cells, and a gradual loss of muscle mass and muscle function. The relationship between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D3] levels and muscle strength has been extensively investigated, even though there is no agreement in literature. Therefore, the objective of our study was to evaluate the effects of vitamin D on 25(OH)D3 levels, muscle strength, and physical performance in post-menopausal women, comparing calcifediol and cholecalciferol. Material and Methods In our prospective study we included postmenopausal women aged ≥50 years, referring to our outpatient rehabilitation service for the prevention and management of osteoporosis. We divided our population into two groups, according to the prescription performed (calcifediol or cholecalciferol). We evaluated at the baseline (T0) and after six months (T1): serum levels of 25(OH)D3, appendicular muscle strength, using the Hand Grip Strength Test (HGS) and the Knee Extensor Strength Test (KES), and physical performance, using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Results We assessed 205 post-menopausal women, mean aged 69,28 ± 9,16 years; 103 treated with calcifediol and 102 with cholecalciferol. In Table 1 we showed the differences in outcomes within groups. Conclusion Our results showed that post-menopausal women treated with calcifediol had significant improvements in serum levels of 25(OH)D3, muscle strength, and physical performance