Efficacy of vitamin D replacement therapy in restless legs syndrome: a randomized control trial
Wali SO
Published in Sleep and Breathing
Methodology
12-week randomised placebo-controlled trial (NCT02256215); oral vitamin D 50,000 IU caplets or placebo administered weekly under direct observation; primary endpoint change in the IRLSSG rating scale score from baseline to week 12, with serum vitamin D and bone profile measured every 4 weeks.
Key Findings
35 people with restless legs syndrome diagnosed by International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group criteria were randomised to weekly 50,000 IU vitamin D caplets (n = 17) or placebo (n = 18) for 12 weeks, taken under direct observation. The groups were comparable at baseline in age, sex, symptom severity and vitamin D level. There was no significant change in mean restless legs severity score in the vitamin D group compared with placebo. The authors conclude vitamin D supplementation does not improve restless legs symptoms.
Conclusions
Vitamin D supplementation did not improve restless legs syndrome symptoms.
Limitations
Only 35 participants at a single centre, far too few to rule out a modest benefit, and the trial did not restrict enrolment to people who were vitamin D deficient.
Supplements Studied
The results suggest that vitamin D supplementation does not improve restless legs syndrome symptoms.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.