The Vitamin Shoppe D3 125 mcg (5000 IU)
Brand: The Vitamin Shoppe · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that The Vitamin Shoppe D3 125 mcg (5000 IU) is a high-dose vitamin D supplement. While vitamin D is essential for health, this dose is well above the standard recommended daily allowance and should only be used under professional guidance. Data on the specific product’s ingredients is limited to the label, and we must rely on general data for vitamin D and calcium interactions.
How it works
Vitamin D acts as a key regulator in your body, helping with calcium absorption for bone health and supporting immune function. While data for vitamin D is not available in the provided source, the related mineral calcium is critical for bone mineralization and muscle relaxation [NIH ODS]. You take vitamin D to help your body use calcium effectively, but at 5000 IU, you are getting a potent dose intended for those with a known deficiency.
Safety profile
Data for adverse events specifically for this product is not available. However, the FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements. Be aware that high calcium levels, which can be influenced by vitamin D intake, can cause side effects like constipation, nausea, extreme tiredness, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS]. High calcium intakes might also increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our assessment: Do not start this high-dose supplement without a blood test confirming a deficiency. A standard daily dose is much lower. If you take this product, be aware that calcium supplements can reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine [NIH ODS]. Consult your doctor before beginning this regimen to ensure it is safe for you.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Softgel(s) |
| Market Status | On Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide