Research

Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2)

63 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.

6
Meta-analyses
0
Systematic reviews
47
RCTs
10
Other studies
Meta-analyses (10%)
RCTs (75%)
Observational (6%)

Studies

Sorted by quality and recency

2026·Nutrition reviews·Junmei Lai, Xiaofan Yu, Kousalya Prabahar, et al

Effects of Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) on Parathyroid Hormone, Calcium, and Phosphorus in Humans: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Meta-analysisJoint Bone Health

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs evaluating the effect of vitamin D2 on PTH, calcium, and phosphorus in humans. The analysis showed a significant reduction in serum PTH and an increase in calcium levels following vitamin D2 intervention, with no significant effect on phosphorus concentrations.

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2026·Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)·Augustine Edet Ben, Valerie Orsat

UV-Induced Nutritional Transformation of Mushrooms: From Molecular Shifts to Health Outcomes.

Meta-analysisNutrition

The study explores UV irradiation as a method to enhance the nutritional quality of mushrooms, focusing on the conversion of ergosterol to vitamin D2. It highlights the effectiveness of UV-treated mushrooms in increasing serum 25(OH)D2 levels without adverse effects, supporting their use in addressing vitamin D deficiency.

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2025·Nutrition reviews·E.I.G. Brown, A. Darling, Tracey M. Robertson, et al

Effect of Vitamin D2 Supplementation on 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Status: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Meta-analysisNutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of vitamin D2 supplementation on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 concentrations. The analysis found that vitamin D2 supplementation led to statistically significant reductions in serum 25(OH)D3 levels compared to controls, suggesting an inverse relationship between vitamin D2 and D3 concentrations.

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2024·Proceedings of the Nutrition Society·E.I.G. Brown, A. Darling, T.M. Robertson, et al

Effect of vitamin D2 supplementation on 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 status: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Meta-analysisNutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs assessing the effect of vitamin D2 supplementation on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 concentrations. The meta-analysis found significant reductions in serum D3 after vitamin D2 supplementation compared with control and D3 supplementation, suggesting an inverse relationship between vitamin D2 and D3 concentrations.

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2024·Prostaglandins & other lipid mediators·Zhihong Zhou, Jiyuan Liu, Hui Zhang, et al

The effect of vitamin D2 on lipid profile, anthropometric indices, blood pressure, and inflammatory and glycemic biomarkers in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysisInflammation Nutrition

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs assessing vitamin D2 supplementation effects on lipid profile, anthropometric indices, blood pressure, and inflammatory and glycemic biomarkers. Vitamin D2 was associated with a significant decrease in CRP and HbA1c levels, but no significant effects on other outcomes.

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2024·Steroids·Fan Zhou, Abdolreza Jamilian, Kousalya Prabahar, et al

The effect of vitamin D2 supplementation on vitamin D levels in humans: A time and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysisNutrition

This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessed the efficacy of vitamin D2 supplementation on serum vitamin D levels. It found that vitamin D2 significantly increases total vitamin D, 25(OH)D2, and 1,25(OH)D concentrations, but decreases 25(OH)D3 concentrations. The effects were more pronounced with higher doses, shorter durations, older participants, and lower baseline vitamin D levels.

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2022·PloS one·Robert S Wallis, Sibuse Ginindza, Trevor Beattie, et al

Lung and blood early biomarkers for host-directed tuberculosis therapies: Secondary outcome measures from a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 200Inflammation

Phase-2 RCT of four host-directed therapies (HDTs) including ergocalciferol (vitamin D) in 200 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. The study evaluated biomarkers of inflammation and microbicidal activity. Two HDTs (CC-11050 and everolimus) showed superior recovery of lung function, but none accelerated MTB infection eradication. Biomarkers showed specific responses related to HDT mechanisms.

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2021·Indian pediatrics·Raman Kumar Marwaha, Aashima Dabas, Seema Puri, et al

Efficacy of Daily Supplementation of Milk Fortified With Vitamin D2 for Three Months in Healthy School Children: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 235Joint Bone Health

Double-blind RCT evaluating daily supplementation of milk fortified with 240 IU of vitamin D2 in 235 healthy children aged 10-14 years. The intervention group showed higher serum 25(OH)D levels compared to the control group, but the fortification dose did not achieve sufficient serum 25(OH)D levels. A higher proportion of secondary hyperparathyroidism was observed in the control group.

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2021·The Lancet. Respiratory medicine·Robert S Wallis, Sibuse Ginindza, Trevor Beattie, et al

Adjunctive host-directed therapies for pulmonary tuberculosis: a prospective, open-label, phase 2, randomised controlled trial.

RCTn = 200

Phase 2 RCT assessing safety and preliminary efficacy of four host-directed therapies for pulmonary tuberculosis, including ergocalciferol. Ergocalciferol did not improve lung function recovery compared to control, and a serious adverse event was noted. CC-11050 and everolimus showed potential benefits in lung function recovery.

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2007·Rheumatology (Oxford, England)·H Smith, F Anderson, H Raphael, et al

Effect of annual intramuscular vitamin D on fracture risk in elderly men and women--a population-based, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

RCTn = 9,440Joint Bone Health -

RCT of 9440 elderly individuals receiving annual intramuscular injections of 300,000 IU vitamin D2 or placebo over 3 years. The study found no significant protective effect of vitamin D2 on non-vertebral fractures, hip fractures, wrist fractures, or falls.

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2024·Journal of renal nutrition : the official journal of the Council on Renal Nutrition of the National Kidney Foundation·Saranchana Jiampochaman, Piyatida Chuengsaman, Talerngsak Kanjanabuch, et al

A Comparison Between Severity-Dependent Protocol and Fixed-Dose Regimen of Oral Vitamin D Supplementation on Correction of Hypovitaminosis D Among Dialysis Patients.

RCTn = 76Physical Performance

This RCT compared severity-dependent and fixed-dose regimens of oral ergocalciferol supplementation in 76 dialysis patients with low vitamin D status. Both regimens significantly elevated serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, but the fixed-dose group showed better improvement in muscle mass, particularly in peritoneal dialysis patients. Muscle strength and gait speed did not differ between groups.

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2024·JAMA network open·Benjamin Udoka Nwosu, Sadichchha Parajuli, Rohit B Sharma, et al

Effect of Ergocalciferol on β-Cell Function in New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial.

RCT

The paper is a secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial investigating the effect of ergocalciferol on β-cell function in individuals with new-onset Type 1 Diabetes.

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2022·Antioxidants·S. Kleftaki, C. Amerikanou, A. Gioxari, et al

A Randomized Controlled Trial on Pleurotus eryngii Mushrooms with Antioxidant Compounds and Vitamin D2 in Managing Metabolic Disorders

RCTn = 100Inflammation Nutrition Physique Heart Health

RCT of Pleurotus eryngii mushroom snack with enhanced vitamin D2 content in 100 metabolically unhealthy patients. The intervention group showed regulated glucose levels, reduced body weight, fat, waist and hip circumferences, increased 25(OH)D2, and decreased LDL, SGOT, IL-6, and ox-LDL levels, suggesting antidiabetic, antiobesity, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits.

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2021·BMC geriatrics·Atthakorn Jarusriwanna, Suchat Phusunti, Pojchong Chotiyarnwong, et al

High-dose versus low-dose ergocalciferol for correcting hypovitaminosis D after fragility hip fracture: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 140Joint Bone Health

RCT comparing high-dose (60,000 IU/week) versus low-dose (20,000 IU/week) ergocalciferol supplementation in 140 fragility hip fracture patients over 12 weeks. The high-dose group had a higher rate of serum 25(OH)D restoration to optimal levels than the low-dose group, with mild transient hypercalcemia observed in a small percentage of patients.

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2021·Gynecological endocrinology : the official journal of the International Society of Gynecological Endocrinology·Suchada Indhavivadhana, Worawat Boonyachan, Manee Rattanachaiyanont, et al

Effectiveness of vitamin D2 supplementation on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and other metabolic indices in menopausal Thai women: a randomized-controlled trial.

RCTn = 80Inflammation

A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 80 postmenopausal Thai women assessed the effect of vitamin D2 supplementation on hsCRP levels and cardio-metabolic indices. Vitamin D2 significantly reduced hsCRP levels, but the difference between the treatment and placebo groups was not statistically significant.

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2021·Therapeutic apheresis and dialysis : official peer-reviewed journal of the International Society for Apheresis, the Japanese Society for Apheresis, the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy·Naowanit Nata, Wittaya Siricheepchaiyan, Ouppatham Supasyndh, et al

Efficacy of high versus conventional dose of ergocalciferol supplementation on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and interleukin-6 levels among hemodialysis patients with vitamin D deficiency: A multicenter, randomized, controlled study.

RCTn = 70Inflammation Nutrition

A multicenter RCT comparing high-dose versus conventional-dose ergocalciferol supplementation in 70 hemodialysis patients with vitamin D deficiency. The high-dose group showed a greater increase in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and a decrease in parathyroid hormone levels. High-dose treatment suppressed serum IL-6 levels in patients with severe vitamin D deficiency. No significant differences in adverse events were observed between groups.

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2016·European journal of pharmacology·Dongliang Zhang, He Li, Daoxin Yin, et al

Ergocalciferol versus calcitriol for controlling chronic kidney disease mineral bone disorder in stage 3 to 5 CKD: A randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 204Joint Bone Health -

RCT comparing ergocalciferol and calcitriol in 204 stage 3 to 5 CKD patients over 33.2±3.8 months. Ergocalciferol significantly increased 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels more than calcitriol, but both treatments showed similar efficacy and safety for CKD-mineral and bone disorders.

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2015·Journal of the American Society of Nephrology : JASN·Dana C Miskulin, Karen Majchrzak, Hocine Tighiouart, et al

Ergocalciferol Supplementation in Hemodialysis Patients With Vitamin D Deficiency: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 276

A double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT assessed the effects of ergocalciferol supplementation on epoetin utilization and other outcomes in 276 hemodialysis patients with vitamin D deficiency. Ergocalciferol increased serum 25(OH)D levels but had no significant effect on epoetin dose or secondary biochemical and clinical outcomes.

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2011·Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry·Yoshihiro Sato, Jun Iwamoto, Yoshiaki Honda

Once-weekly risedronate for prevention of hip fracture in women with Parkinson's disease: a randomised controlled trial.

RCTn = 272Joint Bone Health

RCT comparing once-weekly 17.5 mg risedronate with daily 1000 IU ergocalciferol to placebo in preventing hip fractures in women with Parkinson's disease. The risedronate group had significantly fewer hip fractures and increased BMD compared to placebo.

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2008·Archives of internal medicine·Richard L Prince, Nicole Austin, Amanda Devine, et al

Effects of ergocalciferol added to calcium on the risk of falls in elderly high-risk women.

RCTn = 302Joint Bone Health

A 1-year double-blind RCT of 302 older women in Perth, Australia, comparing ergocalciferol and calcium citrate supplementation to calcium alone. Ergocalciferol reduced the risk of falls by 19%, particularly in winter and spring, among women with vitamin D insufficiency.

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2007·Neurology·Yoshihiro Sato, Yoshiaki Honda, Jun Iwamoto

Risedronate and ergocalciferol prevent hip fracture in elderly men with Parkinson disease.

RCTn = 242Joint Bone Health

This 2-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of risedronate and vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) on osteoporosis and hip fracture risk in elderly men with Parkinson's disease. The risedronate group showed increased bone mineral density and reduced hip fracture incidence compared to the placebo group.

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·Archives of internal medicine·Yoshihiro Sato, Tomohiro Kanoko, Kei Satoh, et al

The prevention of hip fracture with risedronate and ergocalciferol plus calcium supplementation in elderly women with Alzheimer disease: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 500Joint Bone Health

RCT of 500 elderly women with Alzheimer disease comparing risedronate sodium and ergocalciferol plus calcium supplementation to placebo. The treatment group showed increased bone mineral density and reduced incidence of hip fractures compared to the control group.

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2021·International journal for vitamin and nutrition research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Vitamin- und Ernahrungsforschung. Journal international de vitaminologie et de nutrition·Shannon Galyean, David Syn, Hadil S Subih, et al

Improving vitamin D status in bariatric surgery subjects with monthly high-dose ergocalciferol.

RCTn = 32Nutrition

RCT of 32 bariatric surgery subjects comparing monthly high-dose ergocalciferol (100,000 IUs) to standard vitamin D supplementation. The ergocalciferol group showed a marginally higher mean increase in vitamin D levels compared to the control group, indicating it is a safe and effective treatment for vitamin D insufficiency post-surgery.

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2019·BMC endocrine disorders·Muhammad M Hammami, Kafa Abuhdeeb, Safa Hammami, et al

Vitamin-D2 treatment-associated decrease in 25(OH)D3 level is a reciprocal phenomenon: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 97

RCT investigating the effects of Vitamin-D2 and Vitamin-D3 treatments on 25(OH)D levels. Vitamin-D2 treatment was associated with a decrease in 25(OH)D3 levels, and Vitamin-D3 treatment was associated with a decrease in 25(OH)D2 levels, suggesting a reciprocal relationship. Changes in 25(OH)D2 and 25(OH)D3 levels were correlated with each other and baseline 25(OH)D levels.

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2019·Aging clinical and experimental research·Pattranid Mueangpaisarn, Sumapa Chaiamnuay

A randomized double-blinded placebo controlled trial of ergocalciferol 40,000 versus 100,000 IU per week for vitamin D inadequacy in institutionalized postmenopausal women.

RCTn = 94Joint Bone Health

A randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of ergocalciferol 40,000 versus 100,000 IU per week for 12 weeks in 94 institutionalized postmenopausal women with vitamin D inadequacy. The high dose group achieved higher mean 25(OH)D levels and more subjects reached optimal 25(OH)D levels compared to the standard dose group. No differences in handgrip strength, TUG, EQ-5D-5L, and adverse events were observed between groups.

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2018·Climacteric : the journal of the International Menopause Society·C Suebthawinkul, K Panyakhamlerd, P Yotnuengnit, et al

The effect of vitamin D2 supplementation on muscle strength in early postmenopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

RCTn = 88Physical Performance

A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in early postmenopausal women with vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D2 supplementation increased serum 25(OH)D levels and showed significant increases in muscle strength and muscle CSA from baseline, but no significant differences compared to placebo.

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2017·BMC nephrology·Paweena Susantitaphong, Siriwan Nakwan, Sadudee Peerapornratana, et al

A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of combined calcitriol and ergocalciferol versus ergocalciferol alone in chronic kidney disease with proteinuria.

RCTn = 68

This double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial studied the effect of adding calcitriol to ergocalciferol in CKD patients with vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency. Both groups showed significant reductions in proteinuria, but the addition of calcitriol did not provide additional benefits. No severe hypercalcemia or serious side effects were noted.

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2015·Echocardiography (Mount Kisco, N.Y.)·Satish Jacob Chacko, Sunil Pauwaa, Elena Barengolts, et al

Vitamin D Attenuates Left Atrial Volume Changes in African American Males with Obesity and Prediabetes.

RCTn = 158Heart Health

RCT of vitamin D2 supplementation in prediabetic African American males with vitamin D deficiency. The treatment group showed attenuated increases in left atrial volume compared to placebo over a 12-month follow-up.

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2015·Clinical journal of the American Society of Nephrology : CJASN·Ishir Bhan, Dorothy Dobens, Hector Tamez, et al

Nutritional vitamin D supplementation in dialysis: a randomized trial.

RCTn = 105Nutrition

This randomized, placebo-controlled trial studied the effects of oral ergocalciferol supplementation in 105 hemodialysis patients with vitamin D deficiency. The study found that ergocalciferol significantly increased 25(OH)D levels without altering blood calcium, phosphate, or parathyroid hormone levels over 12 weeks.

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2015·The American journal of clinical nutrition·Deborah M Mitchell, Benjamin Z Leder, Enrico Cagliero, et al

Insulin secretion and sensitivity in healthy adults with low vitamin D are not affected by high-dose ergocalciferol administration: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 90

This 12-week double-blinded randomized controlled trial assessed the effect of ergocalciferol on glucose and insulin metabolism in 90 healthy adults with low vitamin D levels. Despite increasing 25(OH)D levels, ergocalciferol did not improve insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity, or other metabolic health markers compared to placebo.

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2015·Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet thangphaet·Paramat Thimachai, Ouppatham Supasyndh, Amnart Chaiprasert, et al

Efficacy of High vs. Conventional Ergocalciferol Dose for Increasing 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Suppressing Parathyroid Hormone Levels in Stage III-IV CKD with Vitamin D Deficiency/Insufficiency: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 68Hormone Health Nutrition

RCT comparing high-dose vs. conventional-dose ergocalciferol in CKD stage III-IV patients with vitamin D deficiency. High-dose ergocalciferol significantly increased 25-OH-D levels and decreased PTH levels, while being safe and well-tolerated.

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2014·International journal of clinical pharmacy·Nakarin Sansanayudh, Supakit Wongwiwatthananukit, Nongluk Phetkrajaysang, et al

Comparative efficacy and safety of different doses of ergocalciferol supplementation in patients with metabolic syndrome.

RCTn = 90Nutrition

RCT comparing the efficacy and safety of ergocalciferol at 20,000 IU/week and 40,000 IU/week in 90 metabolic syndrome patients with vitamin D deficiency. Both doses significantly increased serum 25(OH)D levels, with more patients achieving normal levels in the 40,000 IU/week group. No significant adverse reactions or changes in serum calcium or QTc interval were observed.

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2013·Journal of renal nutrition : the official journal of the Council on Renal Nutrition of the National Kidney Foundation·Shayan Shirazian, Mary Schanler, Shuba Shastry, et al

The effect of ergocalciferol on uremic pruritus severity: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 50Skin Hair Health -

This double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial evaluated the effect of 12 weeks of ergocalciferol administration on uremic pruritus severity in 50 hemodialysis patients. The study found no significant difference in pruritus scores between the ergocalciferol and placebo groups, indicating that ergocalciferol was not effective for treating uremic pruritus.

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2013·Journal of renal nutrition : the official journal of the Council on Renal Nutrition of the National Kidney Foundation·Shayan Shirazian, Myriam Kline, Vipul Sakhiya, et al

Longitudinal predictors of uremic pruritus.

RCTn = 50

Post hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial comparing ergocalciferol to placebo in 50 hemodialysis patients with uremic pruritus. The study found no association between pruritus scores and serum phosphate, intact PTH, serum calcium, or calcium-phosphate product.

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2012·Clinical journal of the American Society of Nephrology : CJASN·Sherri-Ann M Burnett-Bowie, Benjamin Z Leder, Maria P Henao, et al

Randomized trial assessing the effects of ergocalciferol administration on circulating FGF23.

RCTn = 90Hormone Health

This randomized controlled trial assessed the effects of ergocalciferol administration on fibroblast growth factor 23 levels in 90 healthy vitamin D-deficient subjects. Ergocalciferol treatment increased 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, and fibroblast growth factor 23 levels compared to placebo, with no changes in parathyroid hormone and serum phosphate.

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2011·American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation·Csaba P Kovesdy, Jun L Lu, Sandra M Malakauskas, et al

Paricalcitol versus ergocalciferol for secondary hyperparathyroidism in CKD stages 3 and 4: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 80

RCT comparing ergocalciferol and paricalcitol for secondary hyperparathyroidism in 80 CKD patients with vitamin D deficiency. Paricalcitol was more effective at decreasing PTH levels, while ergocalciferol increased serum 25(OH)D levels significantly.

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2010·The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism·K A Ward, G Das, S A Roberts, et al

A randomized, controlled trial of vitamin D supplementation upon musculoskeletal health in postmenarchal females.

RCTn = 69Joint Bone Health -Physical Performance

A double-blind, randomized controlled trial in postmenarchal females aged 12-14 years assessed the effects of vitamin D2 supplementation on musculoskeletal health. While vitamin D2 improved 25(OH)D status and muscle movement efficiency, it did not enhance bone mineral accretion, geometry, strength, muscle force, or power. Greater increases in jump velocity were observed in participants with lower baseline 25(OH)D levels.

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2008·European journal of clinical nutrition·A A Madar, K-I Klepp, H E Meyer

Effect of free vitamin D(2) drops on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D in infants with immigrant origin: a cluster randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 66Nutrition

Cluster randomized controlled trial in Oslo, Norway, involving 66 infants with immigrant backgrounds. The intervention group received vitamin D2 drops and information handouts, resulting in significantly higher serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels compared to the control group after 7 weeks.

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2008·Osteoporosis international : a journal established as result of cooperation between the European Foundation for Osteoporosis and the National Osteoporosis Foundation of the USA·R Przybelski, S Agrawal, D Krueger, et al

Rapid correction of low vitamin D status in nursing home residents.

RCTn = 63Joint Bone Health

Prospective study of 63 nursing home residents evaluating high-dose oral ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) treatment for vitamin D inadequacy. Ergocalciferol effectively increased mean total 25(OH)D concentration from 17.3 to 63.8 ng/ml without adverse effects, but did not improve ambulation, cognition, or behavior.

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2005·American journal of respiratory and critical care medicine·Michael P Boyle, Michelle L Noschese, Sharon L Watts, et al

Failure of high-dose ergocalciferol to correct vitamin D deficiency in adults with cystic fibrosis.

RCTn = 134Joint Bone Health -

Prospective study evaluating the effectiveness of high-dose oral ergocalciferol in correcting vitamin D deficiency in adults with cystic fibrosis. Of 134 participants, only a small percentage achieved the target serum 25-OHD levels, indicating the current repletion regimen may be inadequate.

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2003·Journal of bone and mineral research : the official journal of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research·Philip N Sambrook, Mark Kotowicz, Peter Nash, et al

Prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: a comparison of calcitriol, vitamin D plus calcium, and alendronate plus calcium.

RCTn = 195Joint Bone Health

Randomized, multicenter, open-label trial comparing alendronate, calcitriol, and ergocalciferol plus calcium in preventing and treating glucocorticoid-induced bone loss in 195 subjects. Alendronate showed superior efficacy in increasing lumbar bone mineral density compared to ergocalciferol and calcitriol, which showed no significant difference between them.

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2022·Proceedings of the 8th International Conference on Agricultural and Biological Sciences·Pinida Joradon, V. Rungsardthong, U. Ruktanonchai, et al

Ergosterol Content and Antioxidant Activity of Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) and Its Induction to Vitamin D2 by UVC-Irradiation

StudyNutrition

The study investigated the ergosterol content in Lion’s Mane mushroom and the effect of UVC irradiation on converting ergosterol to vitamin D2. The irradiated sample showed a decrease in ergosterol and an increase in ergocalciferol, suggesting a method to enhance vitamin D2 enriched extracts from mushroom by-products.

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2018·Journal of elder abuse & neglect·Jessica L Lee, Jason Burnett, Rui Xia, et al

Feasibility of intervention in elder self-neglecters: Setting the stage for future research.

RCTn = 49

This study assessed the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial of oral vitamin D (ergocalciferol) in elder self-neglecters. Participants were given either 50,000 IU or 400 IU of ergocalciferol monthly for 10 months, with a crossover for half the control group. Out of 94 referrals, 49 participants were enrolled, and 35 completed the trial, indicating a 72% retention rate.

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2018·Iranian journal of kidney diseases·Bahman Bashardoust, Anahita Zakeri, Nasrin Fouladi, et al

Treatment Effect of Ergocalciferol on Bone Metabolism Indexes and Parathyroid Hormone in Hemodialysis Patients.

RCTn = 40Joint Bone Health

RCT evaluating the effects of ergocalciferol on bone metabolism indexes in 40 hemodialysis patients. Ergocalciferol significantly improved 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels but had no significant effects on serum calcium, parathyroid hormone, or alkaline phosphatase levels.

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2018·Archives of endocrinology and metabolism·Preneet Cheema Brar, Maria Contreras, Xiaozhou Fan, et al

Effect of one time high dose "stoss therapy" of vitamin D on glucose homeostasis in high risk obese adolescents.

RCTn = 20Nutrition -

RCT studying the effect of a one-time high dose 'stoss therapy' of vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) on insulin sensitivity and secretion in 20 obese adolescents with vitamin D deficiency. The study found no beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity or secretory indices, indicating no improvement in glucose homeostasis.

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2014·PloS one·Gavin Dreyer, Arthur T Tucker, Steven M Harwood, et al

Ergocalciferol and microcirculatory function in chronic kidney disease and concomitant vitamin d deficiency: an exploratory, double blind, randomised controlled trial.

RCTn = 38Heart Health

RCT of 38 patients with chronic kidney disease and vitamin D deficiency, comparing ergocalciferol to placebo over 6 months. Ergocalciferol improved microcirculatory endothelial function and reduced tissue advanced glycation end products, with no significant changes in bone mineral parameters, blood pressure, or left ventricular mass index.

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2013·Scandinavian journal of clinical and laboratory investigation·Eva Gravesen, Jacob Hofman-Bang, Ewa Lewin, et al

Ergocalciferol treatment and aspects of mineral homeostasis in patients with chronic kidney disease stage 4-5.

RCTn = 43

RCT of 43 CKD stage 4-5 patients examining high-dose ergocalciferol treatment on mineral homeostasis. The intervention group showed a significant increase in 25(OH)D2 concentration, but no significant changes in creatinine, phosphate, ionized calcium, PTH, and FGF23 levels.

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2013·Pediatric nephrology (Berlin, Germany)·Pornpimol Rianthavorn, Pantipa Boonyapapong

Ergocalciferol decreases erythropoietin resistance in children with chronic kidney disease stage 5.

RCTn = 20

RCT of 20 children with CKD stage 5 and vitamin D insufficiency, comparing oral ergocalciferol treatment to control over 12 weeks. The treatment group showed increased serum 25D levels and a significant decrease in ESA dosage compared to baseline, suggesting ergocalciferol may reduce erythropoietin resistance.

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2012·Clinical journal of the American Society of Nephrology : CJASN·Rukshana Shroff, Mandy Wan, Ambrose Gullett, et al

Ergocalciferol supplementation in children with CKD delays the onset of secondary hyperparathyroidism: a randomized trial.

RCTn = 40Joint Bone Health

A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study in children with CKD stages 2-4 and vitamin D deficiency. Ergocalciferol supplementation delayed the onset of secondary hyperparathyroidism compared to placebo, with a significantly longer time to development of hyperparathyroidism.

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2012·The Journal of nutrition·Charles B Stephensen, Melissa Zerofsky, Dustin J Burnett, et al

Ergocalciferol from mushrooms or supplements consumed with a standard meal increases 25-hydroxyergocalciferol but decreases 25-hydroxycholecalciferol in the serum of healthy adults.

RCTn = 38Nutrition

RCT evaluating the impact of consuming UV-treated mushrooms and ergocalciferol supplements on vitamin D status in 38 healthy adults over 6 weeks. Ergocalciferol increased 25-hydroxyergocalciferol levels but decreased 25-hydroxycholecalciferol levels, indicating absorption and metabolism without improving overall vitamin D status.

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2012·Journal of investigative medicine : the official publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research·Vinaya Simha, Muhammad Mahmood, Mohammmed Ansari, et al

Effect of vitamin D replacement on insulin sensitivity in subjects with vitamin D deficiency.

RCTn = 12Nutrition -

RCT of 12 healthy subjects with vitamin D deficiency treated with ergocalciferol or placebo for 8 weeks. Ergocalciferol improved 25(OH)D levels but did not improve insulin sensitivity.

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1985·The Journal of pediatrics·L S Hillman, B Hollis, S Salmons, et al

Absorption, dosage, and effect on mineral homeostasis of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol in premature infants: comparison with 400 and 800 IU vitamin D2 supplementation.

RCTNutrition

The study compared the absorption, dosage, and effects on mineral homeostasis of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OHD3) and vitamin D2 in very premature infants. 25-OHD3 supplementation showed rapid increases in serum 25-OHD but also decreased serum calcium and magnesium concentrations. Vitamin D2 at 800 IU resulted in higher serum calcium and less frequent hypomineralization compared to 400 IU. The study suggests further research is needed for 25-OHD3 use.

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2025·Journal of microbiology, biotechnology and food sciences·Ravinder Kaushik, Bhawana Sachdeva, S. Arora, et al

CALCIUM AND VITAMIN D2 ABSORPTION AND EFFECT ON NITROGEN UTILIZATION OF MILK

Animal studyNutrition

The study evaluated the bioavailability of micronutrient fortified milk using in-vivo (rats) and in-vitro methods. It found that vitamin D2 increased calcium absorption and improved protein efficiency ratio, net protein utilization, and digestibility coefficient in rats. The combination of calcium and vitamin D2 showed the highest biological value and nitrogen utilization.

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2021·Animals : an Open Access Journal from MDPI·Alison Dowley, T. Sweeney, E. Conway, et al

Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Mushroom or Vitamin D2-Enriched Mushroom Powders on Gastrointestinal Health Parameters in the Weaned Pig

Animal studyGut Health

The study compared the effects of mushroom powder and vitamin D2-enriched mushroom powder to zinc oxide on gastrointestinal health in weaned pigs. Vitamin D2-enriched mushrooms improved gastrointestinal morphology and increased anti-inflammatory markers but reduced feed intake and animal performance. Mushroom powder also improved gut morphology but had no effect on inflammatory markers and reduced feed intake without affecting growth.

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2011·The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism·Amy D Divasta, Henry A Feldman, Julia N Brown, et al

Bioavailability of vitamin D in malnourished adolescents with anorexia nervosa.

Cohort studyn = 24Nutrition -

Prospective cohort study examining the serum response to oral ergocalciferol in 12 adolescents with anorexia nervosa compared to 12 healthy controls. Despite severe malnutrition, the bioavailability of oral ergocalciferol was similar between the groups, suggesting vitamin D dosing may not need adjustment for malnourished patients.

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2009·Journal of cystic fibrosis : official journal of the European Cystic Fibrosis Society·Steven R Boas, Joseph R Hageman, Louisa T Ho, et al

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

Cohort studyn = 18Nutrition

Prospective cohort study evaluating a 2-week high-dose ergocalciferol regimen (700,000 IU) in children and young adults with cystic fibrosis. The study found that 94% of participants achieved therapeutic vitamin D levels without reaching toxic levels, demonstrating the regimen's effectiveness.

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2007·American journal of nephrology·Anna L Zisman, Marta Hristova, L Tammy Ho, et al

Impact of ergocalciferol treatment of vitamin D deficiency on serum parathyroid hormone concentrations in chronic kidney disease.

Observationaln = 52Hormone Health

Observational study of 52 CKD patients with vitamin D deficiency treated with ergocalciferol. The treatment normalized 25-vitamin D levels and decreased PTH concentrations in stage 3 CKD patients, but had less effect in stage 4 CKD.

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2006·Nephrology (Carlton, Vic.)·Jason DeVille, Micah L Thorp, Lois Tobin, et al

Effect of ergocalciferol supplementation on serum parathyroid hormone and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D in chronic kidney disease.

Observationaln = 85Hormone Health

The study assessed the impact of ergocalciferol supplementation on serum parathyroid hormone and 25(OH)D levels in 85 patients with stages 3-5 chronic kidney disease. Ergocalciferol increased serum 25(OH)D levels and decreased iPTH levels, particularly in stage 4 CKD patients, without adverse outcomes.

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1999·The American journal of clinical nutrition·T A Outila, P H Mattila, V I Piironen, et al

Bioavailability of vitamin D from wild edible mushrooms (Cantharellus tubaeformis) as measured with a human bioassay.

RCTn = 27Nutrition

RCT investigating the bioavailability of vitamin D from wild edible mushrooms (Cantharellus tubaeformis) in 27 volunteers with low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. The study found that ergocalciferol from mushrooms was well absorbed, with significant increases in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations compared to the no supplementation group.

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1990·Mineral and electrolyte metabolism·R S Arthur, B Piraino, D Candib, et al

Effect of low-dose calcitriol and calcium therapy on bone histomorphometry and urinary calcium excretion in osteopenic women.

RCTn = 10Joint Bone Health -

RCT evaluating low-dose calcitriol with calcium versus ergocalciferol with calcium in osteopenic women over 60. Bone mineral density increased in both groups, but not significantly. Both therapies were associated with significant hypercalciuria, and calcitriol was not superior to ergocalciferol in preventing bone loss and fractures.

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2019·Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry·D. Won, K. Seong, C. Jang, et al

Effects of vitamin D2-fortified shiitake mushroom on bioavailability and bone structure

Animal studyJoint Bone Health

In vivo study on the bioavailability and bone loss inhibitory effects of vitamin D2 from UV-irradiated shiitake mushroom in rats. Vitamin D2 increased bone mineral density and improved trabecular bone structure, with estrogen deficiency negatively affecting both bioavailability and bone structure.

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2013·PLoS ONE·L. Bennett, C. Kersaitis, S. Macaulay, et al

Vitamin D2-Enriched Button Mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) Improves Memory in Both Wild Type and APPswe/PS1dE9 Transgenic Mice

Animal studyBrain Health Mental Clarity

Animal study on the effects of Vitamin D2-enriched mushrooms on memory in wild type and AD transgenic mice. VDM-fed mice showed improved learning and memory, reduced amyloid plaque load, and elevated interleukin-10 in the brain compared to control diet mice.

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1995·The American journal of medicine·T Diamond, L McGuigan, S Barbagallo, et al

Cyclical etidronate plus ergocalciferol prevents glucocorticoid-induced bone loss in postmenopausal women.

Studyn = 26Joint Bone Health

Prospective study assessing cyclical etidronate plus ergocalciferol for preventing glucocorticoid-induced bone loss in postmenopausal women. The treatment increased lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD over 2 years, preventing bone loss associated with glucocorticoid therapy.

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