Vitamin D is a natural nutrient in normal daily diet. It can also be made in the skin after
exposure to sunlight and is essential for maintaining normal calcium balance. One past study
has suggested that vitamin D may be helpful for blood pressure. This study will test whether
pills containing cholecalciferol (a form of vitamin D) or calcitriol (the active form of
vitamin D) can treat high blood pressure. The investigators plan to enroll up to 80 subjects
at the Atlanta VA Medical Center. Participation in the study is expected to last up to 4
weeks. Subjects will be assigned to cholecalciferol, calcitriol or placebo). A 24-hour blood
pressure monitor will be worn at the beginning and end of the study to determine blood
pressure changes. Renin, PTH, angiotensin-II, and aldosterone levels will also be measured at
the beginning and end of the study.
Phase:
N/A
Details
Lead Sponsor:
Atlanta VA Medical Center
Collaborator:
Emory University
Treatments:
Calcitriol Cholecalciferol Ergocalciferols Vitamin D Vitamins