Vitamin A for Acute Diarrhea
DSome evidence in vitamin A-deficient populations. WHO recommends for measles-associated diarrhea. Not effective in non-deficient individuals.
The Bottom Line
Some evidence in vitamin A-deficient populations. WHO recommends for measles-associated diarrhea. Not effective in non-deficient individuals.
Key Study Findings
Population: children with persistent diarrhea, lactose intolerance, and gut dysbiosis in low/middle-income countries
Population: HFD-induced NAFLD mouse model
Population: Vegan athletes (narrative review)
Population: G20 countries population, 1990-2021
Population: General population (review)
Population: Children with acute diarrhea
Key Statistics
3
Studies
500
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 700-900 mcg RAE/day (RDA for adults)
- gutbarriersupport:
- 900 mcg RAE/day from mixed sources
- deficiencycorrection:
- 200,000 IU single dose (WHO protocol for severe deficiency, medical supervision)
Upper limit: 3,000 mcg RAE/day (preformed vitamin A; beta-carotene has no established UL)
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | -- | Neutral | -- |
| None | 12 weeks | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| B vitamins and glucuronolactone | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | 48 |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | 1.0 weeks | Mixed | -- |
Best taken: With meals containing fat for better absorption
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Hepatotoxicity at chronic high doses of preformed vitamin A
- ⚠ Birth defects (teratogenic at high doses during pregnancy — avoid >3,000 mcg RAE/day)
- ⚠ Nausea, headache, and dizziness
- ⚠ Bone density reduction with long-term excess
Known Interactions
- ● Retinoid medications (isotretinoin, tretinoin — additive toxicity risk)
- ● Orlistat (reduces absorption of fat-soluble vitamins)
- ● Alcohol (increases hepatotoxicity risk of vitamin A)
- ● Tetracycline antibiotics (increased risk of intracranial pressure)
Tolerable upper intake: 3,000 mcg RAE/day (preformed vitamin A; beta-carotene has no established UL)
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vitamin A help with Acute Diarrhea?
How much Vitamin A should I take for Acute Diarrhea?
Are there side effects of Vitamin A?
How strong is the evidence for Vitamin A and Acute Diarrhea?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Acute Diarrhea
Vitamin A for other conditions
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.