COVID-19: Vitamin D (Guidelines)

TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland
NHS Highland

Low vitamin D in patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19

In patients admitted with confirmed COVID-19 infection:

  • Give oral colecalciferol 100,000units (2.5mg) STAT, then maintenance 800units (20microgram) daily.
    See Highland Formulary for preparations and further information on vitamin D
  • Do not give loading dose if:
    • On existing regular vitamin D supplementation
    • Tuberculosis
    • Hypercalcaemia
    • Sarcoidosis
  • Do not check vitamin D level

Give one-month supply. Patients should then be advised to buy vitamin D at their local pharmacy, unless they are eligible for free vitamin D supplementation.

This would be expected to be the Government recommended dose for prevention of vitamin D deficiency: 400units (10microgram) daily.

Treatment of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is 800units (20microgram) daily. See vitamin D deficiency guidelines.

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 22/01/2021

Next review date: 30/06/2023

Author(s): Antimicrobial Management Team .

Version: Awaiting approval of TAM Subgroup of the ADTC

Approved By: NHS Highland Clinical Response Group

Reviewer name(s): Mary Peirse, Consultant Microbiologist .

Document Id: COVID096