Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 1, 2026

A Method of Trigonometric Modelling of Seasonal Variation Demonstrated with Multiple Sclerosis Relapse Data
Published on: December 9, 2015
Topical delivery of vitamin d3: a randomized controlled pilot study
Mir Sadat-Ali1, Dalal A Bubshait1, Haifa A Al-Turki1
1College of Medicine, University of Dammam, King Fahd Hospital of the University, AlKhobar, Saudi Arabia.
Transdermal vitamin D3 delivery is feasible, significantly increasing 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in participants using a novel cream. This study demonstrates a safe and effective method for treating vitamin D deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Vitamin D deficiency is a widespread health concern.
- Oral supplementation can be challenging for some individuals.
- Exploring alternative delivery methods for vitamin D is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of transdermal vitamin D3 delivery.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a novel topical vitamin D3 formulation.
- To determine if the dermal route can effectively increase serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled study involving 48 female medical students.
- Participants applied either a vitamin D3-aloe vera cream (Top-D) or an aloe vera gel control for 3 months.
- Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD) levels were measured pre- and post-treatment.
Main Results:
- The vitamin D3 cream group showed a significant increase in mean 25OHD levels from 12.05 ng/mL to 37.95 ng/mL (P=0.001).
- The control group experienced no significant change in 25OHD levels (11.4 ng/mL to 10.58 ng/mL).
- No adverse effects were reported, indicating a safe application.
Conclusions:
- Transdermal delivery of vitamin D3 is a safe and effective method.
- Topical vitamin D3 application can successfully replete serum 25OHD levels.
- This route offers a promising alternative for managing vitamin D deficiency.
Related Concept Videos
Role of Skin in Vitamin D Synthesis
The solar UV B rays (290-315 nm) are absorbed by the skin, and 7-dehydrocholesterol (provitamin D3) photolyzes it to previtamin D3, which undergoes a rapid transformation to vitamin...
Bioavailability Study Design: Single Versus Multiple Dose Studies
Bioavailability Study Design: Healthy Subjects Versus Patients
Drug Delivery: Miscellaneous Routes
Oral inhalation and nasal sprays swiftly transfer drugs across the respiratory epithelium's mucosal layer. Inhaled glucocorticoids and bronchodilators directly target lung conditions such as asthma, while fluticasone nasal spray mitigates allergic rhinitis.
Transdermal patches transport drugs...
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
Bioavailability Study Design: Absolute Versus Relative Bioavailability

