A 6-month-old girl experienced severe health complications after receiving an adult bottle of vitamin D from her parents. Dr. Thai Thien Nam, Deputy Head of the Department of Nephrology and Dialysis at the National Children’s Hospital diagnosed the child with kidney disease due to increased levels of blood calcium, ionized calcium, and a very high concentration of vitamin D3. The parents had mistakenly given her a dose much higher than what is recommended for a child of her age.
Vitamin D is crucial for children’s bone development and immune system function, but when parents exceed recommended dosages, it can lead to serious poisoning. The maximum recommended dose for vitamin D in children varies by age, and exceeding these limits can result in poisoning with symptoms appearing months or even years later. It is vital for parents to consult with their child’s doctor before giving them any supplements or medicines to avoid potential health risks.
The child was treated at the Department of Nephrology and Dialysis where she was instructed to stop all calcium and vitamin D products, receive fluids, and use diuretics to compensate for the fluid loss. After 5 days of treatment, the child showed improvement and stopped vomiting but continued to urinate frequently. The medical team planned for her to stay off calcium and vitamin D products for at least 6 months and undergo regular examinations to monitor for complications.
This incident highlights the importance of following dosage instructions when giving children supplements or medicines. Parents should always consult with their child’s doctor before administering any medications or supplements to ensure their safety and prevent potential health risks.
