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Vitamin D3 2000 IU vs 5000 IU

Updated By the HealthWorld editorial teamHow we pick

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The short answer

The difference is simply the amount per serving: 2000 IU is 50 mcg of vitamin D3, 5000 IU is 125 mcg — two and a half times as much in one small softgel or capsule. The NIH lists 4,000 IU (100 mcg) a day as the tolerable upper intake level for adults from all sources, so a 5000 IU product is meant for people whose doctor has told them they need that much. Which one suits you depends on your blood level, diet and sun — that's a question for your doctor, not a label.

Nature Made Vitamin D3 2000 IU

Choose Nature Made Vitamin D3 2000 IU if…

  • You want an everyday amount under the NIH upper limit
  • You prefer a small softgel
  • You buy at a supermarket price point
Thorne Vitamin D-5,000

Choose Thorne Vitamin D-5,000 if…

  • Your doctor has suggested a higher amount
  • You want a capsule without unnecessary fillers
  • You already know your vitamin D level is low

Side by side

Nature Made Vitamin D3 2000 IUThorne Vitamin D-5,000
Vitamin D3 per serving2000 IU (50 mcg)5,000 IU (125 mcg)
FormSoftgelCapsule
Serving1 a day1 a day
NIH upper intake level (adults)Below 4,000 IUAbove 4,000 IU — ask your doctor
Typical price per servingLowerHigher (check the stores)

Where to buy

Frequently asked questions

How many mcg is 2000 IU and 5000 IU of vitamin D3?

1 mcg = 40 IU, so 2000 IU = 50 mcg and 5000 IU = 125 mcg. Newer labels list both.

Is 5000 IU of vitamin D3 too much to take every day?

It's above the NIH tolerable upper intake level of 4,000 IU a day for adults, which is why 5000 IU products say to use them under a doctor's guidance. We don't give doses — your doctor can check your level and tell you what you need.

Softgel or capsule?

Both are small and taken once a day. Softgels carry the vitamin in oil; capsules hold a powder. Pick the one you swallow more easily and compare price per serving.

Sources