Several studies have shown that the healthy adult processes 25(OH)D at a rate equivalent to an intake of 3,000 to 5,000 I.U. vitamin D3 a day. As the rate at which the body metabolizes vitamin D3 from all sources into 25(OH)D can and will vary, it is entirely possible that 25(OH)D is consumed as fast or faster than it’s being metabolized from vitamin D3. Under these conditions, the body may be unable to build enough 25(OH)D reserves to reach a therapeutic level sufficient to prevent cluster headache attacks at a vitamin D3 dose of 10,000 IU/day.
Weeks 1-2
Accordingly, if you don’t experience a favorable response with a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of your cluster headache attacks or go pain free for at least 24 hours after two full weeks on the basic regimen, you may need to titrate up on the vitamin D3 dose. You do this by increasing the daily dose of vitamin D3 by 5,000 I.U. on the 15th day of using this regimen from 10,000 IU/day to a total of 15,000 IU/day. In addition to increasing the daily intake of vitamin D3, add a loading dose of 50,000 IU vitamin D3 one day each week. This will bring your weekly total intake to 155,000 IU vitamin D3.
Continue to take the calcium, Omega 3 Fish Oil, and vitamin D3 cofactors at the same dose.
Week 3
Continue at this dosing rate for one week. If there is no change in your cluster headache pattern by then, add an additional 5,000 IU/day vitamin D3 and continue the once a week loading dose. This will bring your weekly total vitamin D3 intake to 190,000 IU vtamin D3.
Week 4
Continue at this dose for another week.
Week 5
If you haven’t experience a favorable response by the time, then schedule a lab test for 25(OH)D. If your 25(OH)D level is still below 60 ng/mL, (150 nmol/L), continue at this dose for another month then repeat the lab test for 25(OH)D. If your 25(OH)D level is in the 60 to 110 ng/mL range and you still have not had a favorable response, reduce the vitamin D3 dose to 10,000 IU/day, see your PCP and ask for a consult with an endocrinologist. As an alternative, try to see an integrative or Homeopathic physician. They are generally more experienced in testing and treating vitamin and mineral deficient conditions than are neurologists or GPs.
For best absorption
This regimen can be taken any time of the day, but it’s best taken with an 8 oz. glass of lemonade, limeade, orange juice or any fruit juice high in citric acid sweetened with a little honey. Honey is a natural source of Boron, which is listed as one of the “cofactors” along with magnesium, vitamin K and zinc. The Vitamin D Council indicates these cofactors help in metabolizing vitamin D3 into 25(OH)D and also aid in maintaining calcium homeostasis. The calcium citrate and citric acid also combine to form a buffer that elevates stomach gastric juices and maintains this elevated pH for up to seven hours. That can help elevate arterial pH, which can aid in stimulating vasoconstriction in and around the trigeminal nerves.