Generic
Cholecalciferol [Vitamin D3]
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is used for the treatment and prevention of Vitamin D3 deficiency. It is essential for the effective calcium and phosphate absorption required for healthy bones and teeth, preventing rickets, osteomalacia and osteoporosis.
Description
The active form of Vitamin D3, Calcitriol, exerts its effect by binding to the Vitamin D receptors (VDRs) which are widely distributed through many body tissues. Vitamin D3 has a half life of about 50 days as it is fat soluble.
Indications
- Vitamin D3 deficiency
- Rickets
- Osteomalacia
- Osteoporosis
- Pre-eclampsia prevention (pregnancy and lactation)
- Immunity boost
Therapeutic class
Vitamin in bone formation, Vitamin-D preparations
Pharmacological class
Vitamin D
Pharmacology
The active form of Vitamin D3, Calcitriol, exerts its effect by binding to the Vitamin D receptors (VDRs). Vitamin D3 is absorbed in the small intestine and transported to the liver where it is metabolised to 25-hydroxy Vitamin D3 (Calcidiol). A second hydroxylation to 1,25-dihydroxy Vitamin D3 (Calcitriol) occurs in the kidney.
Mechanism of action
Increases absorption of calcium and phosphate, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Capsule):
- Treatment of Vitamin D3 deficiency: 40,000 IU once weekly for 7 weeks; maintenance 1400-2000 IU/day
- Prevention of Vitamin D3 deficiency: 20,000 IU every 4 weeks
- Addition to specific therapy for osteoporosis: 20,000 IU once a month
Child Dose (12-18 years) (Capsule):
- Treatment of Vitamin D3 deficiency: 20,000 IU once every 2 weeks for 6 weeks
- Prevention of Vitamin D3 deficiency: 20,000 IU every 6 weeks
Film-coated Tablet: 1000 IU (1-2 tablets) daily
Injection: As directed by physician
Administration
- Take with food or within 1 hour after a meal
- Oroflash or chewable tablets: Place in mouth, swallow after chewing
- Injection: Administered by a doctor or nurse
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Hypocalcaemia syndrome or calcium intoxication
- Anorexia
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
Precautions & warnings
- Plasma-calcium concentration should be monitored in patients receiving high doses, in renal impairment, and during pregnancy & lactation
- People using Digoxin and Thiazide Diuretics should consult a health care practitioner before supplementing
- People with liver or kidney disease, primary hyperthyroidism, lymphoma, tuberculosis and granulomatous disease should consult a health care practitioner
Contraindications
- All diseases associated with hypercalcaemia
- Known hypersensitivity to Vitamin D3 or any of the excipients
- Evidence of Vitamin D3 toxicity
Drug interactions
- Phenytoin or barbiturates: can decrease the effect of vitamin D
- Glucocorticoids: can decrease the effect of vitamin D
- Digitalis and other cardiac glycosides: effects may be accentuated
- Cholestyramine or paraffin oil: may reduce gastrointestinal absorption of vitamin D
- Actinomycin and imidazole antifungal agents: interfere with vitamin D activity
Food interactions
Food interactions are not significant.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Safe use of doses up to 4000 IU during pregnancy; recommended daily intake is 400 IU.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Vitamin D3 and its metabolites are excreted in breast milk; consider the dose given to the mother.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dosage regimen established (12-18 years)
Geriatric use
Geriatric dosage regimen established (1/2 ampoule every 3 months)
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Monitor plasma-calcium concentration
Hepatic Impairment: Monitor plasma-calcium concentration
Overdose effects
Symptoms: Hypercalcaemia (nausea, vomiting, polyuria, anorexia, weakness, thirst, constipation).
Treatment: Stop all intakes of vitamin D and rehydration.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool (below 25°C) and dry place protected from light. Keep away from the reach of children.