The randomized, controlled trial focused on getting the patients to a level between 32 and 48ng/ml for 20 weeks via oral supplements. The levels were reassessed at 5, 13 weeks, 25 weeks, and 24 weeks after supplementation was discontinued.
The researchers found that even after supplementation was stopped, the patients experienced a significant reduction in their perceived level of pain. Between weeks 1 and 25 of supplementation, the group being treated had significant improvement in pain, while the placebo group had no improvement. The group being treated also scored better on a questionnaire assessing morning fatigue.
The message for patients? While Vitamin D supplementation is not a stand-alone treatment for the full range of fibromyalgia symptoms, it can be a safe and inexpensive option to help with pain and morning fatigue.
Source: Wepner, et. al. "Effects of vitamin D on patients with fibromyalgia syndrome: A randomized placebo-controlled trial." PAIN. February 2014 (Vol. 155, Issue 2, Pages 261-268). Abstract online
