Optimising Vitamin D Status in Older People (VDOP)

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Optimising Vitamin D Status in Older People: A Randomised Controlled Trial of Vitamin D Supplementation

• IRAS ID

  89526

• Contact name

  Terry J Aspray

• Sponsor organisation

  Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospital

• Eudract number

  2011-004890-10

• ISRCTN Number

  N/A

• Research summary

  Vitamin D insufficiency is common in older people, where it may lead to an increase in bone breakdown, resulting in bone loss as well as impairment of muscle function and an increased risk of falls and fractures. This is a non-commercial single centre study to determine the efficacy of three doses of vitamin D supplementation to prevent bone loss, given each month for a year on the change in Bone Mineral Density (BMD) in subjects aged 70 years or older, at risk of vitamin D deficiency. We aim to establish the effects of three doses of vitamin D supplement, given for 12 months on the change in BMD. The effects of the supplement and blood levels of vitamin D (plasma 25OHD concentration) on parathyroid hormone levels and a number of other biochemical markers of bone metabolism, will also be examined which will give insights into bone health and risk of fracture. The doses used are consistent with current UK guidance and the most recent review performed by the Institute of Medicine, in North America and Canada for adults in this age group. The study offers the opportunity to evaluate the impact of dosage of vitamin D supplement on structural (DXA Scanning) and biochemical markers in order to prevent bone loss and to determine an adequate vitamin D intake to maintain bone health.

• REC name

  North East - Tyne & Wear South Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  12/NE/0050

• Date of REC Opinion

  13 Apr 2012

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion