Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 21 Researches
7.1
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 14 Reviews
8.3
Supplement Facts
Serving Size:   1 Softgel
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin D3 (as Cholecalciferol) (from Lanolin)
125 mcg (5,000 IU)
625%

Top Medical Research Studies

9
Vitamin D3 reduces rheumatoid arthritis inflammation
We investigated the role of 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D, commonly known as vitamin D3, in managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our study focused on how this vitamin influences macrophage activation, especially in patients with RA.

We found that vitamin D3 has a unique ability to suppress M1 macrophage polarization, a process that intensifies inflammation and is linked to RA symptoms. The treatment reduced levels of various inflammatory markers in macrophages, which are crucial players in our immune response.

In controlled experiments using THP-1 cells (a type of human immune cell), vitamin D3 enhanced the expression of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase 1 (FBP1). This interaction was significant because FBP1 helps manage the degradation of another protein called PKR, which is involved in the inflammatory response.

By interacting with FBP1 and PKR, vitamin D3 diminishes the inflammatory activity of macrophages, suggesting a pathway for reducing arthritis symptoms. We also observed promising effects in TNF-transgenic mice, where vitamin D3 treatment alleviated arthritic manifestations and promoted a healthier macrophage profile in cells taken from swollen joints.

Overall, our findings affirm the potential of vitamin D3 as a beneficial treatment option for individuals struggling with rheumatoid arthritis.
9
Vitamin D improves RA fatigue
We conducted a clinical trial to see how vitamin D supplementation affects rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, particularly regarding their disease activity and fatigue levels. Our study was based in Tripoli, Libya, where we monitored two groups of RA patients over a 12-week period. One group received vitamin D, while the other continued with standard medications.

Among the 68 participants—primarily women—we observed that the group taking vitamin D showed noticeable improvements in their overall wellness. Notably, their vitamin D levels increased significantly compared to those who did not receive the supplement. This rise in vitamin D was linked to better scores on fatigue assessments, meaning patients felt less tired.

Although both groups had similar characteristics at the start of the study, the outcome highlighted a clear benefit of vitamin D. We found that higher vitamin D levels correlated with improved fatigue, encouraging evidence for considering vitamin D as part of RA treatment plans. However, no significant changes were observed in disease activity scores, indicating that while vitamin D helps with fatigue, it may not directly alter the course of RA.
We explored the effects of 20-hydroxyvitamin D3 (20(OH)D3) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a mouse model. Unlike vitamin D3, which can have harmful effects on the body's calcium levels, 20(OH)D3 offers a noncalcemic alternative that shows promise for chronic treatment of RA.

Our findings demonstrated that 20(OH)D3 significantly suppressed clinical signs of arthritis and reduced joint damage. We observed a decrease in harmful lymphocyte subsets, such as CD4 T cells and CD19 B cells, which are responsible for inflammatory responses in RA. Notably, treatment with 20(OH)D3 resulted in a better balance of regulatory T cells compared to other T cell types, and also a reduction in anti-CII antibodies, critical players in joint damage.

The results of this study suggest that by lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines and antibodies, 20(OH)D3 effectively shields the cartilage and bone from destruction. This positions 20(OH)D3 as a potential candidate for treating RA and possibly other autoimmune disorders, warranting further investigation.

Most Useful Reviews

9
Improved joint health
1 people found this helpful
Vitamin D! I can sing praises for this drug! My entire family takes it year-round. My dose is 5,000 IU every other day during autumn to spring, as I have rheumatoid arthritis, and my doctor monitors my vitamin D levels closely. Now Foods offers the best price-quality ratio for this medication. Thank you!
9
Effective for flares
These are the best vitamin D supplements I've used for my rheumatoid arthritis. When I experience flare-ups or colds, I take 2 capsules a day, and all issues seem to recede. After three years of use, I feel great. I only take breaks in summer.
9
Improved mobility
Vitamin D3 is crucial for the body and necessary for bone and ligament development in children, while also maintaining musculoskeletal health in adults. With rheumatoid arthritis, my initial level was alarmingly low at 7.5. After taking 5,000-10,000 IU, my level increased to 38.5 after three months, and my health, including joint mobility, has greatly improved.

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 21 Researches
7.1
  • All Researches
9
Vitamin D and mortality connection
We analyzed a large dataset involving 2,290 individuals aged 20 to 85 years diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to explore how varying levels of vitamin D could influence overall mortality rates within this group. Our findings revealed a noteworthy trend: lower levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] were linked to a higher risk of death. Specifically, for every 10 nmol/L increase in vitamin D, the risk of death decreased, showcasing a protective effect.

We particularly noted significant associations between sufficient vitamin D levels and lower mortality rates from heart disease and certain cancers. In fact, individuals with adequate vitamin D levels showed a striking 40% reduced risk of dying compared to those classified as vitamin D deficient.

Given these results, it's clear that vitamin D plays a vital role in the health of those with rheumatoid arthritis, especially for older adults. We suggest that maintaining a minimum level of 60 nmol/L could be crucial for improving outcomes in this population.

To sum up, the evidence suggests that supporting adequate vitamin D levels might just be a key factor in enhancing longevity and overall health in individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis.
9
Vitamin D improves RA fatigue
We conducted a clinical trial to see how vitamin D supplementation affects rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, particularly regarding their disease activity and fatigue levels. Our study was based in Tripoli, Libya, where we monitored two groups of RA patients over a 12-week period. One group received vitamin D, while the other continued with standard medications.

Among the 68 participants—primarily women—we observed that the group taking vitamin D showed noticeable improvements in their overall wellness. Notably, their vitamin D levels increased significantly compared to those who did not receive the supplement. This rise in vitamin D was linked to better scores on fatigue assessments, meaning patients felt less tired.

Although both groups had similar characteristics at the start of the study, the outcome highlighted a clear benefit of vitamin D. We found that higher vitamin D levels correlated with improved fatigue, encouraging evidence for considering vitamin D as part of RA treatment plans. However, no significant changes were observed in disease activity scores, indicating that while vitamin D helps with fatigue, it may not directly alter the course of RA.
9
Vitamin D3 reduces rheumatoid arthritis inflammation
We investigated the role of 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D, commonly known as vitamin D3, in managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our study focused on how this vitamin influences macrophage activation, especially in patients with RA.

We found that vitamin D3 has a unique ability to suppress M1 macrophage polarization, a process that intensifies inflammation and is linked to RA symptoms. The treatment reduced levels of various inflammatory markers in macrophages, which are crucial players in our immune response.

In controlled experiments using THP-1 cells (a type of human immune cell), vitamin D3 enhanced the expression of fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase 1 (FBP1). This interaction was significant because FBP1 helps manage the degradation of another protein called PKR, which is involved in the inflammatory response.

By interacting with FBP1 and PKR, vitamin D3 diminishes the inflammatory activity of macrophages, suggesting a pathway for reducing arthritis symptoms. We also observed promising effects in TNF-transgenic mice, where vitamin D3 treatment alleviated arthritic manifestations and promoted a healthier macrophage profile in cells taken from swollen joints.

Overall, our findings affirm the potential of vitamin D3 as a beneficial treatment option for individuals struggling with rheumatoid arthritis.
We explored the effects of 20-hydroxyvitamin D3 (20(OH)D3) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a mouse model. Unlike vitamin D3, which can have harmful effects on the body's calcium levels, 20(OH)D3 offers a noncalcemic alternative that shows promise for chronic treatment of RA.

Our findings demonstrated that 20(OH)D3 significantly suppressed clinical signs of arthritis and reduced joint damage. We observed a decrease in harmful lymphocyte subsets, such as CD4 T cells and CD19 B cells, which are responsible for inflammatory responses in RA. Notably, treatment with 20(OH)D3 resulted in a better balance of regulatory T cells compared to other T cell types, and also a reduction in anti-CII antibodies, critical players in joint damage.

The results of this study suggest that by lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines and antibodies, 20(OH)D3 effectively shields the cartilage and bone from destruction. This positions 20(OH)D3 as a potential candidate for treating RA and possibly other autoimmune disorders, warranting further investigation.
8
Vitamin D positively impacts RA indicators
We examined the effects of vitamin D supplementation on individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through a systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 different studies. Our aim was to determine how vitamin D might influence key health markers in RA patients, particularly focusing on inflammation and overall disease activity.

The findings were quite promising. Vitamin D showed a significant positive effect on the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS-28), which is a measure of RA activity. The weighted mean difference (WMD) observed was -0.83, indicating that vitamin D helped reduce overall disease activity. Additionally, we noted improvements in other markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), both of which are indicators of inflammation.

While vitamin D effectively raised serum vitamin D levels, it didn't have a significant impact on the health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) or pain scores (VAS-pain). This suggests that while vitamin D may help manage inflammation and disease activity, it doesn't necessarily translate into improved functionality or pain relief in every aspect.

Overall, our analysis suggests that vitamin D supplementation can be beneficial for managing rheumatoid arthritis, although we still need to figure out the best dosages and duration of treatment. This gap in knowledge poses an important question for future research.

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 14 Reviews
8.3
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Improved joint health
1 people found this helpful
Vitamin D! I can sing praises for this drug! My entire family takes it year-round. My dose is 5,000 IU every other day during autumn to spring, as I have rheumatoid arthritis, and my doctor monitors my vitamin D levels closely. Now Foods offers the best price-quality ratio for this medication. Thank you!
9
Effective for flares
These are the best vitamin D supplements I've used for my rheumatoid arthritis. When I experience flare-ups or colds, I take 2 capsules a day, and all issues seem to recede. After three years of use, I feel great. I only take breaks in summer.
9
Improved mobility
Vitamin D3 is crucial for the body and necessary for bone and ligament development in children, while also maintaining musculoskeletal health in adults. With rheumatoid arthritis, my initial level was alarmingly low at 7.5. After taking 5,000-10,000 IU, my level increased to 38.5 after three months, and my health, including joint mobility, has greatly improved.
9
Improved health
I take it regularly! At 71 years old and with rheumatoid arthritis, I face issues with pressure and blood vessels. Following my daughter's advice, I've been taking vitamin D courses for 3 months with breaks, for 3 years. My recent vitamin D analysis showed 75 units. My body is thankful, which has perhaps helped me manage the coronavirus relatively well, considering my autoimmune condition. Additionally, maintaining good vitamin D levels keeps my rheumatoid arthritis under control.
9
Less active arthritis
One of my favourite brands, whose drug quality is indisputable. Thanks to the Now brand, I’ve resolved my vitamin D deficiency and boosted my immunity. My rheumatoid arthritis has calmed down and is no longer as aggressive. The capsules are small, and the packaging is compact, making it convenient to take with me. I highly recommend it!

Frequently Asked Questions

9
Improved mobility
Vitamin D3 is crucial for the body and necessary for bone and ligament development in children, while also maintaining musculoskeletal health in adults. With rheumatoid arthritis, my initial level was alarmingly low at 7.5. After taking 5,000-10,000 IU, my level increased to 38.5 after three months, and my health, including joint mobility, has greatly improved.
7.5
Less joint pain
We have been taking this optimal dose for nearly a month. Living in a region with minimal sunlight, my doctor prescribed vitamin D to manage my rheumatoid arthritis. My pains have decreased, I’ve become more active, and my skin looks clearer. I intend to keep taking it as winter approaches.
9
Effective for flares
These are the best vitamin D supplements I've used for my rheumatoid arthritis. When I experience flare-ups or colds, I take 2 capsules a day, and all issues seem to recede. After three years of use, I feel great. I only take breaks in summer.
7.5
Good quality supplement
Great! I take it daily during meals, and it absorbs well. I've noticed a significant improvement in mood, no fatigue, and no apathy. My doctor prescribes it due to my rheumatoid arthritis. It's a quality supplement that I highly recommend.
7.5
More energy
I take vitamin D continuously as advised by Dr. Berg for my rheumatoid arthritis to relieve inflammation. I alternate between doses of 5,000 and 10,000 IU. I've noticed increased energy and no longer suffer from constant fatigue. I also take omega and other vitamins, and I recommend it!
6
Support for bones
A strong product. I take one pill daily after a meal with fat for better absorption. For those with immune deficiencies or who lack sun exposure and experience bone pain, I recommend taking vitamin D daily along with Omega 3. It has a significant impact on skin and hair issues, bone problems, and rheumatoid arthritis.
9
Improved joint health
1 people found this helpful
Vitamin D! I can sing praises for this drug! My entire family takes it year-round. My dose is 5,000 IU every other day during autumn to spring, as I have rheumatoid arthritis, and my doctor monitors my vitamin D levels closely. Now Foods offers the best price-quality ratio for this medication. Thank you!
8
Condition improvement
I take a dosage of 10,000 IU for my rheumatoid arthritis, and I can definitely say my condition is improving.
8
Vitamin D positively impacts RA indicators
We examined the effects of vitamin D supplementation on individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through a systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 different studies. Our aim was to determine how vitamin D might influence key health markers in RA patients, particularly focusing on inflammation and overall disease activity.

The findings were quite promising. Vitamin D showed a significant positive effect on the Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS-28), which is a measure of RA activity. The weighted mean difference (WMD) observed was -0.83, indicating that vitamin D helped reduce overall disease activity. Additionally, we noted improvements in other markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), both of which are indicators of inflammation.

While vitamin D effectively raised serum vitamin D levels, it didn't have a significant impact on the health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) or pain scores (VAS-pain). This suggests that while vitamin D may help manage inflammation and disease activity, it doesn't necessarily translate into improved functionality or pain relief in every aspect.

Overall, our analysis suggests that vitamin D supplementation can be beneficial for managing rheumatoid arthritis, although we still need to figure out the best dosages and duration of treatment. This gap in knowledge poses an important question for future research.
9
Vitamin D and mortality connection
We analyzed a large dataset involving 2,290 individuals aged 20 to 85 years diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to explore how varying levels of vitamin D could influence overall mortality rates within this group. Our findings revealed a noteworthy trend: lower levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] were linked to a higher risk of death. Specifically, for every 10 nmol/L increase in vitamin D, the risk of death decreased, showcasing a protective effect.

We particularly noted significant associations between sufficient vitamin D levels and lower mortality rates from heart disease and certain cancers. In fact, individuals with adequate vitamin D levels showed a striking 40% reduced risk of dying compared to those classified as vitamin D deficient.

Given these results, it's clear that vitamin D plays a vital role in the health of those with rheumatoid arthritis, especially for older adults. We suggest that maintaining a minimum level of 60 nmol/L could be crucial for improving outcomes in this population.

To sum up, the evidence suggests that supporting adequate vitamin D levels might just be a key factor in enhancing longevity and overall health in individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis.
9
Vitamin D improves RA fatigue
We conducted a clinical trial to see how vitamin D supplementation affects rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, particularly regarding their disease activity and fatigue levels. Our study was based in Tripoli, Libya, where we monitored two groups of RA patients over a 12-week period. One group received vitamin D, while the other continued with standard medications.

Among the 68 participants—primarily women—we observed that the group taking vitamin D showed noticeable improvements in their overall wellness. Notably, their vitamin D levels increased significantly compared to those who did not receive the supplement. This rise in vitamin D was linked to better scores on fatigue assessments, meaning patients felt less tired.

Although both groups had similar characteristics at the start of the study, the outcome highlighted a clear benefit of vitamin D. We found that higher vitamin D levels correlated with improved fatigue, encouraging evidence for considering vitamin D as part of RA treatment plans. However, no significant changes were observed in disease activity scores, indicating that while vitamin D helps with fatigue, it may not directly alter the course of RA.
7
Vitamin D's uncertain role in RA
We examined how vitamin D might influence rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While vitamin D has shown some promise in reducing the incidence of autoimmune diseases, including RA, the evidence specific to RA treatment isn't as robust.

In observational studies, vitamin D combined with omega-3 fatty acids suggested a reduction in the risk of developing autoimmune conditions. However, clinical trials specifically focused on vitamin D for RA are limited. Thus, while we see a potential link, the current understanding lacks definitive proof to establish vitamin D as an effective treatment for RA.

Patients and healthcare providers should consider these insights as part of a broader approach to managing RA, which may include other therapies and lifestyle changes.

References

  1. Ranjbar M, Rahimlou M, Fallah M, Djafarian K, Mohammadi H. Effects of vitamin D supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Heliyon. 2025;11:e42463. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e42463
  2. Rafati A, Ramezani R, Esmaeili Gouvarchin Ghaleh H, Bahrami S, Alvanegh AG, et al. Calcitriol Treated Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modulated Immune Response in Collagen-Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis in BALB/c Mice. Transplant Proc. 2025;57:355. doi:10.1016/j.transproceed.2024.12.020
  3. Hijjawi N, Tout FS, Azaizeh B, Aljaafreh B. The role of vitamins D, B12, C, and K in modulating inflammation and disease management in rheumatoid arthritis: a comprehensive review. Clin Rheumatol. 2025;44:591. doi:10.1007/s10067-024-07285-9
  4. Wielińska J, Górna K, Świerkot J, Bugaj B, Kolossa K, et al. Polymorphic Variants in the Vitamin D Receptor and Clinical Parameters of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Undergoing Anti-TNF Treatment. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz). 2024;72. doi:10.2478/aite-2024-0023
  5. Feng Y, Zhu P, Yan D, Wang X, Chen C, et al. Implications of vitamin D levels or status for mortality in rheumatoid arthritis: analysis of 2001-2018 data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Front Immunol. 2024;15:1425119. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2024.1425119
  6. Choudhury C, Sahib A, Karmakar P, Kar S. Correlation of Serum Vitamin D and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol Levels With Disease Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Single-Center Experience From Eastern India. Cureus. 2024;16:e69333. doi:10.7759/cureus.69333
  7. Yadav A, Gera C, Avasthi GL. Multifactorial Nature of Fatigue in North Indian Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients. Mediterr J Rheumatol. 2024;35:241. doi:10.31138/mjr.150124.mnf
  8. Shufang M, Xiaojiao H, Yinhong K. Pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-21 correlates with the reactive oxygen species and 25-hydroxy vitamin D in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Immun Inflamm Dis. 2024;12:e1308. doi:10.1002/iid3.1308
  9. Elfituri S. The effects of vitamin D supplementation on disease activity and fatigue in Libyan rheumatoid arthritis patients. Reumatologia. 2024;62:109. doi:10.5114/reum/187391
  10. Deane KD. Rheumatoid arthritis: prediction of future clinically-apparent disease, and prevention. Curr Opin Rheumatol. 2024;36:225. doi:10.1097/BOR.0000000000001013
  11. Cieślewicz A, Korzeniowska K, Grabańska-Martyńska K, Jabłecka A, Hrycaj P. Seasonal and Treatment-Related Variation in 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Concentration in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. J Clin Med. 2024;13. doi:10.3390/jcm13040973
  12. Rivera-Escoto M, Campos-López B, Pesqueda-Cendejas K, Ruiz-Ballesteros AI, Mora-García PE, et al. Analysis of Potential Vitamin D Molecule Biomarkers: Association of Calcitriol and Its Hydroxylation Efficiency Ratio with Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients. Biomedicines. 2024;12. doi:10.3390/biomedicines12020273
  13. Malakooti SK, Siddiqui H, Wilson B, Bej T, O'Mara M, et al. Higher Vitamin D Levels before Methotrexate Therapy Initiation Are Associated with Lower Subsequent Mortality in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Nutrients. 2024;16. doi:10.3390/nu16030401
  14. Huovinen J, Palosaari S, Pesonen P, Huhtakangas JA, Lehenkari P. 1,25(OH)D and its analogue calcipotriol inhibit the migration of human synovial and mesenchymal stromal cells in a wound healing model - A comparison with glucocorticoids. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2023;233:106373. doi:10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106373
  15. Zhu W, Zhu Y, Zhang S, Zhang W, Si Z, et al. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D regulates macrophage activation through FBP1/PKR and ameliorates arthritis in TNF-transgenic mice. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2023;228:106251. doi:10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106251
  16. Zou J, Zhu L, Yang J, Feng J, Li S, et al. Correlation between vitamin D metabolites and rheumatoid arthritis with osteoporosis by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). J Bone Miner Metab. 2022;40:696. doi:10.1007/s00774-022-01337-3
  17. Sakalyte R, Denkovskij J, Bernotiene E, Stropuviene S, Mikulenaite SO, et al. The Expression of Inflammasomes NLRP1 and NLRP3, Toll-Like Receptors, and Vitamin D Receptor in Synovial Fibroblasts From Patients With Different Types of Knee Arthritis. Front Immunol. 2021;12:767512. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2021.767512
  18. Myers LK, Winstead M, Kee JD, Park JJ, Zhang S, et al. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 and 20-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Upregulate LAIR-1 and Attenuate Collagen Induced Arthritis. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22. doi:10.3390/ijms222413342
  19. Postlethwaite AE, Tuckey RC, Kim TK, Li W, Bhattacharya SK, et al. 20-Hydroxyvitamin D3, a Secosteroid Produced in Humans, Is Anti-Inflammatory and Inhibits Murine Autoimmune Arthritis. Front Immunol. 2021;12:678487. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2021.678487
  20. Dobrovolskaya OV, Toroptsova NV, Nikitinskaya OA, Samarkina EY, Cherkasova MV, et al. [Vitamin D status in women with rheumatoid arthritis: frequency of hypovitaminosis, associations with disease activity, body composition and comorbidity]. Ter Arkh. 2021;93:581. doi:10.26442/00403660.2021.05.200790
  21. Hemshekhar M, Anaparti V, El-Gabalawy H, Mookherjee N. A bioavailable form of curcumin, in combination with vitamin-D- and omega-3-enriched diet, modifies disease onset and outcomes in a murine model of collagen-induced arthritis. Arthritis Res Ther. 2021;23:39. doi:10.1186/s13075-021-02423-z
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