Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
VitaminUses of Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is used to prevent and treat vitamin D deficiency.
- It is also used to treat certain bone conditions, such as osteoporosis, rickets, and osteomalacia.
Side effects of Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Extreme thirst
- Muscle weakness
How Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) works
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is a vitamin D analogue. It facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the intestines, promoting their incorporation into the bones and teeth.
- This helps maintain bone health and prevent conditions like osteoporosis, rickets, and osteomalacia.
Certified content
Written By
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
B. Pharm, MSc.
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) can be taken orally (tablet, capsule, syrup and liquid drops) and intramuscularly (injection).
Age And Dose Restrictions
- It can be used by adults and children according to their age and medical condition.
Contraindications
- It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol).
Medications To Avoid With This Drug
- Avoid taking anti-epileptics, anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone), other vitamin D-containing medications, antiarrhythmics (digoxin and digitoxin), diuretics (bendroflumethiazide), calcium supplements, antitubercular medications (rifampicin, isoniazid), high cholesterol medications (orlistat and cholestyramine), antifungals (ketoconazole and itraconazole) and glucocorticosteroids. These medications may alter the safety and effectiveness of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol).
Overdose And Missed Dose
- Overdose can cause Vitamin D toxicity, the symptoms of which include hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, excessive urination, extreme thirst, weakness, and lethargy. Restriction on calcium and Vitamin D supplements may be required in that case. Therefore, strict adherence to the prescribed dose and duration is essential.
- If you miss a dose of Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol), take it as soon as you remember. But, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing regime.
Management Of Side Effects
- Take it with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and continue taking it for the prescribed duration. If side effects worsen or persist, consult your doctor for a possible treatment plan adjustment.
Use In Driving And Operating Machinery
- Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is unlikely to impair the mental alertness or coordination required while driving.
Use In Pregnancy And Lactation
- Consult your doctor about the dose during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Caution In Other Conditions
- Caution is advised in patients with heart disease, sarcoidosis (a multisystem chronic inflammatory condition which can affect your lungs, heart and kidneys), kidney impairment and in patients with a high tendency to kidney stone formation.
Special Dietary And Lifestyle Recommendation
- Maintain regular, moderate exposure to sunlight to support natural vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Aim for approximately 10 to 30 minutes of sunlight a few times a week.
- Include foods rich in vitamin D in your diet, such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products, egg yolks, and mushrooms. This complements Vitamin D3 supplementation and helps achieve adequate overall intake.
- Ensure a diet rich in calcium from sources like dairy products, leafy greens, fortified plant-based milk, and nuts. Vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption, and sufficient dietary calcium is crucial for optimal bone health.
Frequently asked questions
1. Does Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) affect blood sugar levels?
It does not increase blood sugar levels.
2. Is Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) a habit-forming medicine?
It is not habit-forming and is generally safe when used as directed.
3. Is Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?
It is available over the counter. However, it is best to use it after consultation with a doctor.
4. Does Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) affect fertility?
It is not known to impact fertility.
5. Does Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) cause dry mouth?
No, it is not commonly associated with causing dry mouth.
6. Is it safe to drink alcohol while having Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)?
It is generally advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as alcohol may affect its absorption and aggravate the side effects
7. Does Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) cause diarrhoea?
No, it does not cause diarrhoea.
8. What is the best time to take Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol)?
The best time to take this medication is typically as your doctor prescribes, often recommended as part of a regular dosing schedule.
9. How often is Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) injection taken?
This injection is typically administered intramuscularly on a weekly or monthly basis. The frequency may change based on individual needs. Follow the doctor’s dosing instructions while taking Vitamin D3 injections.
10. Does Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) improve weakness?
It can contribute to improved muscle strength and may alleviate weakness, especially when weakness is associated with conditions like vitamin D deficiency or bone-related issues. Adequate levels of vitamin D support overall musculoskeletal health, potentially enhancing strength and reducing weakness.
11. Is Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) good for nerve pain?
It may contribute to alleviating nerve pain indirectly by supporting overall nerve health and reducing inflammation. However, its use for nerve pain should only be done when prescribed.
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Is Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) safe for kidney patients?
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It is not recommended for individuals with severe kidney problems or kidney stones. Caution is advised for those with kidney disease or damage.
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