Vitamin D and intervention trials in prostate cancer: from theory to therapy.
Schwartz GG.
Ann Epidemiol. 2009 Feb;19(2):96-102. Epub 2008 Jul 10.
PMID: 18619854
doi:10.1016/j.annepidem.2008.03.007
This suggests that whereas vitamin D (e.g., cholecalciferol) might prevent prostate cancer, existing prostate tumors likely would require treatment with 1,25(OH)(2)D and/or its analogs. The major obstacle to the use of 1,25(OH)(2)D in patients therapeutically is the risk of hypercalcemia. Several maneuvers to reduce this risk, including pulse dosing and the use of less calcemic 1,25(OH)(2)D analogs, have been explored in Phase I-III clinical trials. Once merely a promise, vitamin D-based therapies for prostate cancer may soon be medical practice.
Evidence from clinical trials shows, with a wide margin of confidence, that a prolonged intake of 10,000IU/d of vitamin D3 poses no risk of adverse effects for adults, even if this is added to a rather high physiologic background level of vitamin D.
Vitamin D and cancer mini-symposium: the risk of additional vitamin D.
Vieth R.\nAnn Epidemiol. 2009 Jul;19(7):441-5. Epub 2009 Apr 11.
PMID: 19364661
doi:10.1016/j.annepidem.2009.01.009