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kathryn_martin2026-04-17

I recently started taking Vitamin D3 5,000 IU (cholecalciferol) tablets to correct a severe deficiency. My doctor recommended this high dose to quickly bring my levels back to normal. I'm curious about others' experiences with this dosage and any side effects they might have encountered. I've heard that high doses can lead to issues like high calcium levels and allergic reactions, but I'm hoping to get some real-world insights from people who have taken this medication. How did you feel during the treatment? Did you experience any of the listed side effects? Were there any lifestyle changes that helped mitigate any discomfort?

1 min read
last active 4/17/2026
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Comments (9)

S
stephen_sanders4/13/2026

I felt like I had the flu for a week after starting. Turns out my body was just adjusting to the higher dose. Once I felt better, I stuck with it and haven't had any issues.

M
martha_fox4/13/2026

I took 5,000 IU for a few months and it was a game-changer. My energy levels went up and I felt much stronger. Just make sure to get your levels checked regularly!

J
joyce_murray4/13/2026

Be careful with the high dose. I had a friend who got really sick from taking too much. She had constant headaches, and severely upsets stomach.

F
frances_pierce4/13/2026

I had a weird rash after starting the 5,000 IU dose. Turns out I was allergic to something in the tablet. Switched to a different brand and it was fine.

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gary_cox4/13/2026

I've been taking 5,000 IU for 8 months now, to combat my severe deficiency. My doctor initially put me on 2000 IU, but I didn't see much difference. I started feeling better after I got bumped up to 5,000 IU. Just make sure to get your levels checked regularly, and if you start feeling weird, talk to your doctor ASAP.

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philip_knight4/13/2026

I've been taking 5,000 IU for about six months now. My doctor monitored my calcium levels closely, and so far, I haven't had any issues. I do take it with a meal to help with absorption, and I make sure to stay hydrated.

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joan_kennedy4/13/2026

Be careful with the high dose. I had a friend who got really sick from taking too much. She had constant headaches, and severely upset stomach.

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pamela_nelson4/13/2026

I've heard that taking vitamin D with magnesium can help with absorption. Has anyone tried this?

P
priya_sharma4/13/2026

Honestly, I think the benefits outweigh the risks, especially if you're severely deficient. But definitely talk to your doctor first.