Washington, D.C.—Vitamin A toxicity is in the news, with reports of some parents administering high doses of vitamin A to their children in an attempt to prevent measles infection. Texas Public Radio reported that Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock confirms that it is treating children with severe cases of measles who are also suffering from vitamin A toxicity, with elevated levels of vitamin A resulting in abnormal liver function.
Concerned about reports of high-dose vitamin A being used inappropriately, especially in children, the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) has issued a statement on the misuse of vitamin A: “Measles is a serious and highly contagious viral disease that can lead to severe health complications,” said Andrea Wong, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Scientific & Regulatory Affairs, CRN. “Treatment and care for measles should always be conducted under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner.”
CRN stressed that while vitamin A is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in supporting vision, growth, reproduction, and immune function, it is not a substitute for vaccination and research has not established its effectiveness in preventing measles infection.
About Vitamin A
CRN shared the following on the vitamin, and urged consumers not to exceed recommended levels unless directed by a healthcare provider:
- The tolerable upper intake level (UL) for preformed vitamin A is 3,000 mcg per day for adults, and considerably less for children, depending on age.
- Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that accumulates in the liver.
- Excessive intake of preformed vitamin A can lead to toxicity and may result in adverse health effects. These include liver damage, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and more serious complications in severe cases.
- Risks of excessive intake are especially heightened during pregnancy due to the potential for birth defects.
Vitamin A may be administered therapeutically to individuals who are already infected with measles, particularly in children with vitamin A deficiency, where it has been shown to help reduce the severity and complications of the disease, CRN noted, adding: "However, this use is a targeted, short-term medical intervention—not a preventive measure—and should only be done under the direction of a qualified healthcare professional."
Dr. Wong added, “Consumers must make informed decisions and consult qualified health professionals before giving supplements to children—especially in large doses. Vitamin A is important for health, but more is not always better. Parents should rely on medically approved preventive measures, such as vaccination, to protect their children against measles.”
