Vitamin D3 Supplementation for Heart Failure Patients

Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) Supplementation for Heart Failure Patients

The purpose of this study is to determine if treatment with vitamin D3 of 10,000 International Units (IU) daily in vitamin D deficient patients for 6 months will improve B type natriuretic peptide (BNP), a marker of heart function, compared to placebo. The investigators also aim to determine if vitamin D helps cardiopulmonary function as evaluated by cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPX), laboratory values, strength, and quality of life in patients with stable congestive heart failure (Class II or III).

Inclusion Criteria:

• NYHA Heart Failure Class II or II, stable
• Vitamin D deficiency (32 ng/ml or less)
• No recent medication changes for 3 months
• Females of childbearing age must use effective contraceptive if they are sexually active

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hypercalcemia
• Nephrolithiases
• Sarcoidosis
• Acute cardiac insufficiency
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
• Any clinically unstable medical condition
• Supplements of greater than or equal to 1000 units of vitamin D per day