The Use of Vitamin D in Multiple Sclerosis

Aim

To improve the care of people with MS through improving the consistency of management of vitamin D levels in MS patients.

Regarding vitamin D levels in MS, further objectives were to:

• establish guidance for HCPs and people with MS on testing and treatment
• reduce variance in practice and ensure consistent practice
• ensure consistent advice to people with MS regarding supplementation

Headlines

• There is a lack of clear or consistent guidance around vitamin D levels in MS both locally and nationally.
• No national guidance exists and published studies vary greatly in their recommendations over testing, management and optimal vitamin D levels, which varies again from NICE guidance.

Key findings

• The pilot study assessed 50 newly diagnosed patients and found significant variation in testing and management practices.
• A literature review found little consensus in testing and management practices or in optimal levels of vitamin D.
  • NICE guidance on vitamin D levels for the general population suggest significantly lower levels than those suggested in academic papers on vitamin D levels in people with MS.
  • Published guidance has no consensus on optimal vitamin D levels for people with MS.
• Anecdotal reports suggest people with MS are often left feeling uncertain about the use of vitamin D supplements for their MS.

Recommendations

• To carry out a UK-wide survey of practice across all UK disease-modifying therapy (DMT) prescribing centres.
• To develop consensus guidance on optimal testing, management and supplementation of vitamin D in people with MS.