Supplemental and Active Forms of Vitamin D Prevent Falls Among Elders

Previous findings suggest that vitamin D supplementation improves muscle strength and balance and prevents falls (JW Gen Med Dec 23 2005). In this meta-analysis, investigators assessed the efficacy of oral supplemental forms of vitamin D (cholecalciferol [vitamin D₃] and ergocalciferol [vitamin D₂]) and active forms of vitamin D (e.g., 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃) in preventing falls among elders (age, ≥65).

Eight randomized controlled trials (2426 total patients; 81% women; mean age, 80) of supplemental forms of vitamin D met inclusion criteria. High-dose supplemental vitamin D (700–1000 IU daily) significantly lowered relative risk for falling (by 19%); however, lower-dose supplemental vitamin D (<700 IU daily) did not. Relative risk for fall…