Q: I am a 38 years old man having low levels of vitamin D (less than 10). I have been taking Alfacalcidol 0.5 mcg (Alpha D3,GSK) daily. The literature accompanying the medication does not give any information whether this medicine needs to be taken empty stomach or after a meal. What is the best way to take the medication to enhance the absorption? What are the other ways to improve the vitamin D level in the body?

A:Primary deficiency of vitamin D is extremely rare since sunlight is adequate to produce the vitamin. Also food such as fish liver oil have plenty of vitamin D. Vitamin D can be taken at any time. If large doses are consumed, then plasma calcium concentrations should be measured periodically.