[New proposals for old vitamins].

Complementary to their specific metabolic actions, several vitamins are given for new previously unsuspected properties. In addition to its role in calcium absorption, vitamin D has been proven to possess beneficial effects for some autoimmune diseases, several cancers and cardiovascular illnesses. It also increases muscle strength and prevents falls particularly in elderly people. Low dose oral vitamin K supplementation is a new indication for people with unstable coumarinic anticoagulant treatment. Oral vitamin 812 administration is an alternative to the classical parenteral intramuscular administration in pernicious anemia. However, the possible antioxidant beneficial effects of vitamin A and E are largely disputed taking into account an increased mortality associated to their consumption.