The Difference Between Medical-Grade and Over-the-Counter Vitamin Supplements

When it comes to vitamins, there is a clear distinction between medical-grade supplements and those that are available over-the-counter. Medical-grade supplements typically contain the most effective forms of vitamins, making them more expensive than their over-the-counter counterparts. Additionally, over-the-counter vitamins usually have lower concentrations of the product. Unlike prescription drugs, supplements do not require a doctor's prescription to purchase.

They can be found in natural food sources such as fatty fish like salmon and tuna, as well as in products fortified with vitamin D such as milk, cereals and orange juice. It is important to speak with your doctor to ensure you are getting the right amount of vitamin D and to ask if they would recommend taking supplements or other dietary recommendations. Prescription supplements can only be obtained with a doctor's prescription, while over-the-counter vitamins can be purchased without one. If you are considering taking vitamin D, it is important to consult your doctor first to determine the type, form and dosage that is right for you.

Your doctor may also prescribe a supplement if you are taking medications that may deplete certain vitamins or minerals that you need. Vitamin D has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when many healthcare providers cited it as an essential supplement for boosting the immune system. Vitamin D3 is usually recommended, but there is not much difference between the two and both offer the same benefits. People with darker skin are more likely to be deficient in vitamin D due to melanin which reduces the skin's ability to produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.

If your doctor recommends taking vitamin D supplements, you can still request a prescription even if it is available over-the-counter. We can schedule your monthly prescription refills and notify you by text message or email when it's time to refill your prescription. Although 50,000 units of vitamin D3 do not require a prescription, only pharmacy staff may be able to access it without one. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) evaluates safety and effectiveness before approving a prescription and once approved, a doctor can prescribe it.

In the United States, those most likely to be deficient in vitamin D include the elderly, obese individuals, nursing home residents and those who are hospitalized.