| name | Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D3) |
| classification | Vitamin D supplement |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Ergocalciferol is absorbed in the small intestine, with optimal absorption occurring in the presence of bile salts. It is transported in the blood bound to vitamin D-binding protein. | | distribution | Vitamin D circulates in the blood bound to vitamin D-binding protein. It is stored in the liver and adipose tissue. | | metabolism | Ergocalciferol is converted to its active form, calcitriol, in the liver and kidneys. The kidney plays a crucial role in this conversion process. | | excretion | Excretion is primarily through the bile and feces. Some small amount is also excreted through urine. |
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| suggested dosage | Dosage varies depending on the specific indication and the patient's needs. Consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate dosage recommendations for your specific situation. General recommendations are available from the manufacturer's information or from reliable medical websites. For example, 400 IU daily may be adequate for many, but a healthcare professional should determine specific needs. |
| indications | | 1 | Vitamin D deficiency | | 2 | Rickets | | 3 | Osteomalacia | | 4 | Osteoporosis prevention and treatment | | 5 | Certain types of secondary hyperparathyroidism |
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| safety in pregnancy | Ergocalciferol is generally considered safe during pregnancy when taken in recommended doses. However, it's crucial to discuss the use of this vitamin with a doctor and not to self-medicate. The recommended dosage should be strictly followed. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Ergocalciferol is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. Consult with your doctor about potential effects on your infant. |
| side effects | | 1 | Nausea | | 2 | Vomiting | | 3 | Loss of appetite | | 4 | Headache | | 5 | Constipation | | 6 | Fatigue | | 7 | Increased thirst and urination (in high doses) | | 8 | Kidney stones (rare, usually in high doses) | | 9 | Abdominal pain | | 10 | Skin rashes | | 11 | Very rarely: liver damage, or other adverse reactions, though this is not common at recommended doses |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium) | | 2 | Hypervitaminosis D (excessive vitamin D intake) | | 3 | Severe kidney disease (in some cases) | | 4 | Known hypersensitivity to vitamin D or any components of the formulation. |
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| interactions | | 1 | Some medications, such as thiazide diuretics, can increase the risk of hypercalcemia if taken with vitamin D supplements. Consult with your doctor about any other medications you are taking. | | 2 | Antacids and certain medications can affect the absorption of Vitamin D | | 3 | Patients with kidney disease may need specific dosage adjustments. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Do not exceed recommended doses without consulting a healthcare professional. | | 2 | Individuals with pre-existing conditions should be cautious and discuss use with their physician | | 3 | Monitor blood calcium levels if taking in high doses or for extended periods of time | | 4 | Always follow the dosage instructions on the medication label. | | 5 | Take the medication with food for improved absorption. |
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| additional informations | Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Dietary sources of vitamin D, such as fatty fish and fortified foods, can sometimes be insufficient for certain individuals and supplement use may be recommended. Blood tests may be needed to determine if vitamin D supplementation is needed. Always consult your physician before starting any vitamin supplement. |
| patient profile | |
