Vitamin D Supplementation Improves Anemia Management in Hemodialysis Patients with Deficiency

This double-blind, randomized, controlled trial examined the impact of vitamin D supplementation on anemia management in hemodialysis (HD) patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and vitamin D deficiency. 
One hundred anemic HD patients with vitamin D deficiency were randomly assigned to receive either monthly vitamin D (50,000 IU) or a placebo for six months. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels were measured at baseline and after six months, while hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations were monitored monthly.
Results demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation significantly increased 25(OH)D levels in the treatment group compared to the placebo group (p > 0.001). While serum ferritin, serum iron, and transferrin saturation did not differ significantly between the groups, Hb concentrations in the vitamin D group rose significantly more than in the placebo group throughout the study period. 
Additionally, erythropoietin (EPO) dosage requirements were notably lower in the vitamin D group compared to the placebo group (p > 0.001).
These findings indicate that vitamin D supplementation is a safe and effective approach to improving anemia in HD patients with vitamin D deficiency, reducing the need for EPO therapy, and enhancing overall anemia management in this vulnerable population.